The reigning dynasty of the NFL looks pretty primed to make it eight Super Bowl appearances since 2001. And for those under the notion that the rich only get richer, the New England Patriots prospered in large part from a few teams around the league willing to do business with head coach Bill Belichick. No head coach in the league history has more Super Bowl titles than the Patriots’ franchise’s leader. And if all goes well this upcoming year, there could be a third title in four years. Of course, the team managed that feat early in this run (2001, 2003 and 2004).
Belichick’s rookie report to camp on July 24 and two days later the veterans arrive. It’s safe to say this franchise was extremely busy the past four months or so.
Significant additions this offseason
No team selected fewer players in April’s NFL draft than the New England Patriots. Belichick and company finished with only four picks. That’s because of this offseason, the franchise orchestrated its share of trades and also added a few veterans via free agency. The Pats dealt for wide receiver Brandin Cooks (New Orleans Saints), defensive end Kony Ealy (Carolina Panthers) and tight end Dwayne Allen (Indianapolis Colts). The team also signed cornerback Stephon Gilmore and running back Mike Gillislee away from the division-rival Buffalo Bills.
New England also grabbed running back Rex Burkhead from the Cincinnati Bengals and picked up wideout Andrew Hawkins, released earlier this year by the Cleveland Browns. And when the New York Jets opted to cut loose veteran inside linebacker David Harris, the Patriots were more than happy to pick him up. Safe to say this was quite a haul for the defending Super Bowl champions.
What to look for
When it comes to Belichick, quarterback Tom Brady and this New England Patriots’ organization, expect Business As Usual for a team that enters the 2017 season riding a 10-game overall winning streak. Brady turns 40 years old this year and while there have been no signs of slippage in his performance. In fact, quite the contrary.
The franchise has surrounded him with some new offensive weapons and with the return of a healthy Rob Gronkowski at tight end, this could be a scary offense. Meanwhile, Belichick addressed the pass rush this offseason and the teams front seven looks pretty formidable. And this was a team that allowed the fewest points in the league in 2016. All told the New England Patriots enter the summer as the team to beat in the league. Like we stated: Business as usual.
