The Patriots also canned Alex Van Pelt, so they will need to find a new play caller. Obviously, New England wants to ensure it finds someone who meshes well with quarterback Drake

The Patriots still have officially fired only Mayo, and Kraft said the new coach will decide what to do with this season’s last year’s staff.

And that’s part of why this shouldn’t be that difficult of a decision for the Patriots. Don’t play Drake Maye. Rest Christian Gonzalez, who is in the concussion protocol. Ensure the two pillars of this rebuild are ready to go for 2025.

The New England Patriots desperately need to put some weapons around quarterback Drake Maye this offseason, whether that means adding some pieces via free agenc

How does Drake Maye's potential impact the Patriots' pursuit of Mike Vrabel? Tom E. Curran and Phil Perry discuss on the Patriots Talk Podcast.

The Patriots entered Week 18 with a 4-12 record, tied with the Cleveland Browns, Tennessee Titans, and New York Giants. However, they hold a league-highest 78% chance at landing the pick thanks to their lower strength of schedule, giving them the tiebreaker.

Although a win against the Bills in Week 18 slid the Patriots down the first-round draft order from the first overall pick to the fourth, they're still in a good position to improve their roster in more ways than one.