After a disappointing 3-14 season, Patriots Owner Robert Kraft has elected to keep GM CJ Hunter and coach Nick Saban on for another year. This was not a popular decision amongst the fan base, who has not seen a team this bad since 1990.
Ultimately, Kraft decided he saw potential in his staff and their vision as the team improved greatly toward the end of last season. They have decided to keep QB Caleb Williams who will need to cut down on his 48 interception season. Williams was quoted saying “I wrote it 100 times on a notepad in my locker. TAKE CARE OF THE FOOTBALL. I know I belong in this league and I’m going to prove it.”
Perhaps a change in scheme will help Williams who struggled with an over reliance on the pass game last year. The Patriots finished 5th in passing yards but last in rushing yards. However, new OC Scott Anderson promises to incorporate a balanced offense.
Watch out for last season’s breakout star, Tyquan Thornton, who had over 1600 yards. Chase Young returns as captain of the defense and the teams #1 jersey seller. The Patriots also have the #2 pick in the draft and look to add another young star tonight.
A reporter asked coach Saban on media day if he seriously thought the Patriots could compete in a loaded AFC East, especially after not making a splash in free agency, and he didn’t mince words. “We got a core of young guys that give everything to the game. These guys are developing faster than I could’ve hoped for. I tell them everyday, Mediocre people don’t like high achievers, and high achievers don’t like mediocre people. You’re not going to be mediocre. These guys know what they’re made of, and questions like yours only fuel our collective drive and motivation.”
The Patriots have plenty of doubters, but don’t count Saban as one of them. He has his team ready to run through a brick wall this season.