AFC East Buzz: Bradley Chubb, Patriots rookie hype, Bills-Jets #MNF
AFC East hype: Patriots rookies can change the game in 2023
Don’t sleep on the New England Patriots in the AFC East. On paper, Bill Belichick’s squad has the least star power of all the AFC East teams, but star power doesn’t always translate into wins on the field.
Coaching, execution, and each player doing their job has been Belichick’s fuel for success the past couple of decades. Critics and a mediocre record would say that has declined a bit for the Patriots coach the past few seasons, particularly post-Tom Brady. So, 2023 could be a break-or-make year for Belichick.
The Patriots have a nice mix of veterans and younger players on both sides of the ball, but there are expectations for the rookie class. With 11 rookies on the current 53-man roster, there is some excitement on both sides of the ball. If a handful of those players pop, the Patriots will make the AFC East very interesting.
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Rookie kicker Chad Ryland and punter Bryce Baringer have a chance to solidify each position, but let’s be real, the excitement and expectations are on position players on both sides of the ball. On defense, the top two picks cornerback Christian Gonzalez and edge Keion White will make contributions in Belichick’s defense. There may be more pressure on Gonzalez as he will anchor the secondary, but White will make some noise in that front seven in 2023.
Another player who could excel as a rookie before the season is over is hybrid linebacker/safety Marte Mapu, a third-round pick with a lot of talent and the type of athleticism to play his way into the rotation.
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The offensive side is where the Patriots need players to exceed expectations. Two sixth-round receivers who both could be consider steals of the draft, Demario Douglas and Kayshon Boutte could give Mac Jones more options in the passing game. With the team lacking a true No. 1 option, either of those players emerging as reliable playmakers would be key to a successful 2023 NFL season.