When we often speak about the National Football League's best, the New England Patriots would most likely be the topic of conversation. The Patriots organization's goal, mindset and strategy is simple, "play to win the game." The Patriots finished with a 14-2 record at the end of the 2016-107 season, the strongest record in the league. The team was shocked opponents with a surprising rushing charge led by LaGarrette Blunt to compliment the outstanding passing attack led by who else other than Tom Brady. With a 1,161 yard running back and a 3,554-yard passing quarterback, the Patriots entered the playoffs determined to win another Super Bowl.
After winning Super Bowl LI against the Atlanta Falcons in February, the head office did not waste any time when it came to making improvements to their team in the offseason. Quietly but surely, the Patriots started their offseason with a bang!
Good offenses produce points!
When you have the best quarterback of all time, everything else becomes a lot easier. While other organizations throughout the league searched to solve their quarterback issues, the Patriots were able to move comfortably and improve other areas of their team. Although LaGarrette Blunt had a decent year rushing the football, he is still currently an unrestricted free agent. The Patriots seem always to find a tailback that fits their offense perfectly.
Dion Lewis is still a member of the team, but he will need help handling the rushing load. Knowing the Patriots, they will find a running back when all of their other offensive needs are met. As far as Tom Brady's weapons, they keep arriving season after season. The Patriots have recently acquired former New Orleans Saints wide receiver Brandin Cooks and a fourth round draft pick for a third and first round pick in exchange.
Tight end Dwayne Allen has also joined the New England organization and plans to create a two-headed monster while in rotation with Rob Gronkowski. The Patriots held the 32nd pick in the up and coming NFL draft. With the new addition of Cooks and Allen along with the recent performance of playoff sensation Chris Hogan and Julian Edelman, the Patriots will continue to improve.
Defense wins championships!
In addition to the Brandon Cooks trade, the Patriots have also acquired defensive linemen Kony Ealy from the Carolina Panthers. The Patriots are a team that will ALWAYS need a defensive lineman, and with Ealy joining the front line, the Patriots are making significant moves to shut down opposing offenses. Other off-season moves include re-signing pro bowl linebacker Donte' Hightower, signing secondary help in Stephon Gilmore, Duron Harmon, and Justin Coleman. With significant improvements in the secondary and the front line, the New England defense is looking better than ever.
What can we look forward to?
One thing is for certain; the Patriots could make their way back to the big dance.
The team played through the Tom Brady suspension better than anyone thought they would have and they are making major moves in the free agent market. We all are accustomed to seeing Tom Brady burn defensive gameplans to the ground but will he scorch with ease with three playmaking receivers in his arsenal? Let's not forget the double tight end set the team can now abuse with the new edition of Dwayne Allen and returning superstar Rob Gronkowski. I would not be surprised if the super bowl factory Patriots make another super bowl appearance in the nearby future.
