08 September 2023 , 19:52
468
0
The New England Patriots are facing their toughest season yet since Tom Brady left the franchise, but owner Robert Kraft doesn't appear to be concerned.
For almost two decades the Patriots dominated the AFC East, winning the division 17 times from a possible 19 between 2001-2019. Six Super Bowl victories came during that time but things haven't been the same since Brady left the organisation, and long-time head coach Bill Belichick has recently split with girlfriend Linda Holliday just before the start of the 2023 season.
Belichick and Holliday began dating in 2007, and reportedly there's concern within the organisation that it could affect the head coach heading into the season. The Patriots have also struggled for consistency since drafting Mac Jones as their new starter, and the rest of their division has strengthened as they've fallen.
The Buffalo Bills are one of the best teams in the NFL with quarterback Josh Allen, and when Tua Tagovailoa is fit the Miami Dolphins are also tough to beat. But now even the New York Jets are a team to be feared, as the team that hasn't made the playoffs since 2010 now has Aaron Rodgers at quarterback.
The Patriots have been listed as the underdog in their division ahead of their opening game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday, with OddsChecker pricing them on Friday at 17/2 to finish first. The Buffalo Bills are listed at 6/4, New York Jets 11/4 and Miami Dolphins 3/1.
Joe Burrow backs Patrick Mahomes after Kansas City Chiefs reach Super Bowl
Despite all of the context within the division and also the personal issues that Belichick may be facing, Kraft is happy being the underdog as it takes the pressure off. "I sort of like that most people are picking us to come in fourth in the division," Kraft said at an event held at Gillette Stadium on Thursday night.
Kraft also feels that the chemistry that Belichick has built up over the years gives them a major advantage over their rivals. "I think there’s a great chemistry," Kraft added about his team. "This is a young team, too.
Kraft is certain that Belichick will prove himself again next season (AP)"This might be one of the youngest teams. I think coach (Belichick) has done a good job overall. I think having (new offensive coordinator) Bill O’Brien come here and work with Mac, they seem to have great chemistry. I’m actually excited about the team."
The Patriots have a tough start to the 2023 schedule, as they take on the Eagles in Week 1 before hosting the Dolphins. They are then on the road for Week 3 and 4, first taking on the Jets before a tough trip to Dallas to face the Cowboys.
Although the Patriots finished third in the division last season it's unlikely that the Jets will struggle like they have in previous years. The Patriots haven't finished last in their division since 1999, and both Kraft and Belichick will be hoping to keep it that way.