Mike Vrabel is right about the Patriots’ lack of depth. So how can they fix it? FOXBOROUGH, Mass. — The New England Patriots’ 2025 season was defined by consistency, with the same starting offensive linemen, quarterback, running backs, and wide receivers from the season opener still in place by the Super Bowl. The team’s success was bolstered by remarkable health, as their depth was rarely tested throughout the year. However, coach Mike Vrabel’s blunt assessment of the roster’s limitations has reignited discussions about the Patriots’ long-term challenges. After the team’s second preseason game, Vrabel admitted, “I do not think we have a very deep team.” This statement, initially perceived as a critique of the front office, was clarified as a straightforward acknowledgment of the roster’s shortcomings. The lack of depth stems from years of poor draft performances. The 2022 draft class, which included 10 selections, has only Marcus Jones remaining on the active roster. Of the seven players drafted in the first five rounds of the 2023 draft, only Christian Gonzalez is still with the team. The 2024 class, which included high-profile picks like Drake Maye, is expected to contribute minimally, with Maye likely being the sole addition to the roster. Vrabel emphasized the need for continued strong drafting, stating, “We have to continue to draft very well” to address the issue. This lack of depth has influenced the coaching staff’s approach to the preseason. Vrabel has been hesitant to play starters in exhibition games, prioritizing their health over competitive matchups. This strategy aligns with a broader league trend of valuing joint practices over exhibition games, as teams increasingly focus on preparing for the regular season.#new_england_patriots #mike_vrabel #drake_maye #eliot_wolf #foxborough_mass
New England Patriots Impress Philadelphia Eagles’ Defensive Coordinator with Joint Practices The New England Patriots’ recent joint practices with the Philadelphia Eagles have left a strong impression, according to Vic Fangio, the Eagles’ defensive coordinator. Fangio described the two sessions as “two of the most valuable days of training camp,” a statement that underscores the significance of the workouts for both teams. The practices, held in Foxboro before the teams faced off in their second preseason game, provided a unique opportunity for competitive evaluation without the pressure of a full game. Fangio, a veteran coach with nearly four decades of NFL experience, highlighted the value of facing a team with a dynamic offense and a deep roster. The Patriots, led by quarterback Drake Maye and wide receiver A.J. Brown, challenged the Eagles’ defense in ways that a regular preseason game might not. The Eagles, in turn, tested the Patriots’ offensive strategies, particularly during the second practice, when their defensive front and secondary disrupted New England’s rhythm. The back-and-forth nature of the sessions reflected the high level of competition, with both teams gaining critical insights into their opponents’ strengths and weaknesses. The first joint practice saw the Patriots’ offense at its peak, with Maye showcasing his ability to push the ball downfield. His throws to Brown, Romeo Doubs, and DeMario Douglas created explosive plays, earning praise from the Patriots’ official website, which called Maye “outstanding” during open-field drills. Maye’s precision, even under pressure, stood out, particularly on a difficult completion to Brown. However, the Eagles responded in the second session, with their defensive line generating more pressure and their secondary forcing turnovers.#philadelphia_eagles #aj_brown #new_england_patriots #drake_maye #vic_fangio
A.J. Brown Eyes Dominance with New England Patriots A.J. Brown, a seasoned wide receiver with a reputation as one of the NFL’s elite pass-catchers, is poised to make a significant impact with the New England Patriots in the 2026 season. The veteran receiver, who has consistently delivered standout performances throughout his career, is expected to thrive under the guidance of quarterback Drake Maye and the team’s offensive strategy. Patriots legend Julian Edelman has publicly endorsed Brown’s potential, drawing parallels to the legendary Randy Moss and highlighting the team’s recent additions as factors in Brown’s anticipated success. Edelman, speaking on the “Patriots Talk” Podcast, praised Brown’s ability to dominate opposing defenses, calling him a “1A” talent. “A.J. Brown, that’s a 1A. A real 1A. They probably haven’t had someone like that since Randy Moss,” Edelman said. He emphasized the Patriots’ strategic moves, including the acquisition of Romeo Doubs and the development of rookie tight end Eli Raridon, as key components of a revamped offensive arsenal. Edelman also credited offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels for his role in elevating players like Brown, noting McDaniels’ expertise in crafting schemes that maximize individual talents. Brown’s own track record underscores his readiness for the challenge. The 29-year-old receiver has surpassed 1,000 receiving yards in six of his seven full NFL seasons, with standout performances during his tenure with the Philadelphia Eagles. During his four years in Philadelphia, Brown helped the team reach two Super Bowl appearances, earning three All-Pro selections and accumulating 5,034 yards and 32 touchdowns across 62 games.#new_england_patriots #josh_mcdaniels #drake_maye #a_j_brown #julian_edelman
Patriots Update Quarterback Depth Chart for 2026 The New England Patriots are set to replace their current backup quarterback, Joshua Dobbs, with Tommy DeVito as the new second-stringer behind Drake Maye. According to NFL Network reporter Ian Rapoport, the team plans to release Dobbs, a move that would save the Patriots approximately $3.7 million in salary and create only $1.05 million in dead cap obligations. Dobbs, who spent the 2025 season as Maye’s backup, saw limited playing time, appearing in just four games. His most significant action came in Week 7 against the Tennessee Titans, where he entered the game briefly after Maye was pulled for a concussion evaluation. Dobbs completed a single pass attempt, converting a third down to DeMario Douglas, before Maye returned to finish the drive, which ended with a Rhamondre Stevenson touchdown. The Patriots’ decision to part ways with Dobbs appears to be a strategic move to prioritize DeVito, a 2025 third-stringer they re-signed to a two-year deal. DeVito, who has eight NFL starts and backup experience, will now serve as Maye’s primary backup. The team has already engaged in trade discussions involving Dobbs, though the release seems likely to finalize after the free agency period. DeVito’s contract includes up to $2.3 million in salary and bonuses for 2026, with $2 million guaranteed. With Dobbs’ departure, the Patriots will need to identify a new third-string quarterback to handle practice drills and serve as an emergency backup. The team may target a veteran willing to take on a limited role, as the current roster lacks depth at the position. DeVito, though 27 years old, has only two seasons of NFL game experience, making him a relative newcomer.#ian_rapoport #new_england_patriots #drake_maye #tommy_devito #joshua_dobbs
NFL news roundup: Patriots release backup QB Josh Dobbs after no trade materializes The New England Patriots announced on March 23, 2026, that they had released quarterback Josh Dobbs following failed efforts to secure a trade. Dobbs, 31, had served as the team’s backup during the 2025 season, making four appearances and completing seven of 10 passes for 65 yards. The decision to cut Dobbs came after the Patriots could not find a team willing to match his contract terms, according to NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport. Dobbs’ release marks the end of his tenure with the Patriots, where he joined the team in 2023. With the departure of Dobbs, the Patriots have shifted their quarterback depth, with Tommy DeVito now set to serve as the backup to first-year starter Drake Maye in 2026. The move reflects the team’s focus on streamlining its roster ahead of the 2026 season. The Patriots also made several other signings and transactions in the offseason. Offensive lineman James Hudson signed a one-year deal with the team, while defensive tackle Sam Roberts joined on a one-year contract. Additionally, the team announced the signing of tight end Stone Smartt and the departure of running back Travis Homer, who joined the Pittsburgh Steelers. Other notable moves included the re-signing of tight end Travis Kelce to a three-year, $54.735 million deal with the Kansas City Chiefs, which includes potential incentives pushing the total value to $57.735 million. Kelce’s 2026 salary is expected to be $12 million, with an additional $3 million in incentives. The Patriots’ roster adjustments highlight ongoing efforts to balance depth and salary cap flexibility.#ian_rapoport #new_england_patriots #drake_maye #tommy_devito #josh_dobbs
Patriots Release Joshua Dobbs, Promote Tommy DeVito to QB2 The New England Patriots announced on Monday that they have released quarterback Joshua Dobbs, moving Tommy DeVito into the No. 2 quarterback role. Dobbs, 31, had served as the team’s backup behind Drake Maye during the 2025 season. His release comes after the Patriots signed DeVito to a two-year contract worth up to $7.4 million, including incentives, following their decision not to tender him as a restricted free agent. Dobbs’ contract included a base salary of $3.2 million for 2026 and a $4.75 million salary cap charge. The deal also featured per-game roster bonuses of $25,000, with a potential total of $425,000, as well as a $75,000 workout bonus. The Patriots’ move to cut Dobbs and elevate DeVito reflects their strategy to prioritize cost-effective depth while building a more competitive roster. DeVito, now set to assume the No. 2 role, signed a deal with a base value of $4.4 million. The team plans to add a third quarterback later in the offseason, further solidifying their options at the position. This adjustment underscores the Patriots’ focus on balancing financial responsibility with long-term developmental goals. Dobbs’ most notable performance with the Patriots occurred during a 31-13 victory over the Tennessee Titans on October 19. In that game, Maye left the field early in the third quarter for a concussion evaluation, and Dobbs took over. On third-and-5, he completed a 12-yard pass to DeMario Douglas, setting up a touchdown drive that put the Patriots ahead 24-13. The team went on to secure the win, highlighting Dobbs’ ability to step in under pressure. Despite his strong showing in that game, Dobbs saw limited action in 2025, playing in just four games.#new_england_patriots #tennessee_titans #drake_maye #joshua_dobbs #tommy_devito
New England Patriots Target Massachusetts Native to Bolster Drake Maye's Surrounding The New England Patriots are reportedly considering a significant addition to their tight end corps as they look to enhance their pass-catching capabilities ahead of the 2026 season. While much of the focus has been on upgrading the wide receiver position, analysts suggest the team may prioritize a strong tight end option to complement quarterback Drake Maye. NFL writer Tyler Sullivan of CBS Sports has predicted that the Patriots could target Isaiah Likely, a tight end currently with the Baltimore Ravens. Sullivan highlighted that while securing a wide receiver remains a popular expectation, the Patriots’ offensive strategy under coach Josh McDaniels has historically emphasized the tight end role. This approach is further underscored by the impending free agency of Hunter Henry, who is set to enter the final year of his contract in 2026. Likely, who will turn 26 in April, has established himself as a reliable target for the Ravens over the past four seasons. He has recorded 1,568 receiving yards and 15 touchdowns in 63 games, demonstrating his ability to make an impact in key situations. Sullivan noted that Likely’s potential would be amplified by playing alongside Maye, an MVP-caliber quarterback, in a system that heavily features tight ends. The move would also mark a homecoming for Likely, who is a native of Massachusetts. This connection could add an extra layer of motivation, as the Patriots have a strong local fan base and a history of developing homegrown talent. Sullivan argued that adding Likely would provide the team with a dependable option to support Maye, particularly as the offense continues to evolve.#baltimore_ravens #new_england_patriots #isaias_likely #josh_mcdaniels #drake_maye
