The New England Patriots are starting over new. No, not in the sense that they are having a fire sale on players or completely turning over the roster. Most of the team has never played without Tom Brady. Some have come from different places and have experienced other organizations, but this will be a learning moment for a lot of guys.

How will the Patriots adjust to the post-Brady era? Will they fall flat on their face and the run of success is ended with a Thanos-like snap? If they want to lessen the negative impact of Brady’s departure, these eight Patriots need to step up this season.

Josh McDaniels, OC

Behind Bill Belichick, McDaniels probably has the most to lose in New England this season. He’s spent four seasons without Brady – one in New England, two in Denver, and one in St. Louis. In his three seasons outside the organization, McDaniels’ offenses have never finished higher than 19th in points per game. And, in the one season in New England without Brady, the Patriots brought back a roster that just went undefeated in 2007. They finished eighth in points per game.

Now, McDaniels has a large challenge on his hands. He’ll have to prepare a new quarterback to start in 2020. Whether that quarterback is Jarrett Stidham, Brian Hoyer, Cody Kessler, a rookie, or another veteran, the offense will not run the same as it has in the past.

The best part of Brady’s game has been deciphering defenses and knowing just where the hole will be. It would be unfair to expect that of the next quarterback right away. It will be McDaniels’ job to make it easier on his quarterback and the rest of the offense. If he can do that well enough, the transition might not be as difficult.