7. Expect a slow start and a strong finish
We’ve seen the Patriots start slow in recent years. And then they go on to win Super Bowls. It’s just a matter of calibration. But that tuneup period may take even longer as Belichick figures out how to highlight his new quarterback’s strengths. The tight end and receiver groups should have some young contributors, too (N’Keal Harry, Jakobi Meyers, Devin Asiasi and Dalton Keene). And the defense has three talented rookies that will likely earn big roles (safety Kyle Dugger and linebackers Josh Uche and Anfernee Jennings). The Patriots may look a little lost. But it’s always foolish to count them out.
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