New England Patriots 2018-19 - NFL Season Preview & Future Odds Predictions

The New England Patriots look to put the controversy behind them of their loss to the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl 52 and the benching of Malcolm Butler in that title game, when they open their 2018 NFL season. The Patriots lost a few coaches and players during the offseason, but the key figures are still in place and as long as Bill Belichick is roaming the sidelines and Tom Brady is under center, the Patriots will be considered Super Bowl contenders. The Patriots finished the regular season 13-3 in 2017 and hope to come close to that again in 2018.

Brady leads an offense at 41-years of age that has the capability of becoming one of the league’s best. Julian Edelman returns at wide receiver from an ACL tear, but will miss the first four games due to a PED suspension. Ron Gronkowski returns at tight end as one of Brady’s favorite targets, especially in the red zone. WR Brandin Cooks was traded after one season but the Patriots have Chris Hogan, Phillip Dorsett and Cordarrelle Patterson, who will be involved in quick screens and jet sweeps because of his athleticism and speed. The running game lost Dion Lewis to Tennessee, but rookie Sony Michel is similar in skill sets and will likely start. James White remains the top third-down back for the Pats. The offensive line will not have left tackle Nate Solder who signed with the Giants, but has strength in right guard Shaq Mason and center David Andrews with Isaiah Wynn a first round draft pick providing immediate help.

The defense kept opponents in check during the regular season and playoffs until the Philadelphia Eagles dissected the Patriots defense during the Super Bowl. The line did not have a pass rush, the linebackers often times missed assignments and the secondary lacked coverage and tackling skills. The Pats lacked explosiveness and speed on the defensive side.

Adrian Clayborn was signed to help at defensive end, but has yet to perform up to his potential. Derek Rivers should mature into a strong force at tackle and Trey Flowers brings experience and consistency, which should make the front line stronger, Dont’a Hightower returns from injury and will help on the edge. Other likely regulars at linebacker will be Marquis Flowers and Kyle Van Noy. The secondary should feature more speed. Keion Crossen a rookie is the fastest cornerback and Jason McCourty, Devin’s twin is very versatile at corner. Stephon Gilmore covers better than any in the secondary for the Patriots, while Duron Harmon and Devin McCourty will provide steady roles at safety.