New England Patriots - NESN.com
Another former New England Patriots player celebrated the franchise’s resurgence on Sunday.
Rob Gronkowski labeled New England the AFC’s best team before their Week 12 win over the Cincinnati Bengals. An ex-teammate on a competing network praised the Patriots after their ninth straight victory.
Logan Ryan, who won two Super Bowls with the organization in 2014 and 2016, rejoiced over New England’s revival on CBS Sports.
“We had a hard four years, but the Patriots are back,” Ryan said.
Ryan lauded Drake Maye as an MVP candidate. The second-year quarterback leads the NFL with 3,130 passing yards despite still seeking the first 300-yard game of his career.
“That is called consistency, and don’t get tired of consistency,” Ryan said. “Don’t get bored of consistency. The Patriots have had injuries, too … and they still find ways to win.”
The former cornerback celebrated the current duo of Christian Gonzalez and Carlton Davis III. Ryan, who played under Mike Vrabel on the Tennessee Titans in 2019, called his old general a Coach of the Year contender.
The 34-year-old also addressed skeptics downplaying New England’s hot start as a byproduct of a favorable schedule.
“He knows how to win games, and Drake Maye is so consistent behind the helm,” Ryan said. “Yes, their schedule has been light, but they’re doing what they’re supposed to do, taking advantage of everybody. They’ve had some litmus tests, and they still won.”
Ryan believes the Patriots are a well-balanced team that can efficiently pass and run the ball while playing hard-nosed defense. He also doesn’t see another clear AFC favorite standing in New England’s way back to the Super Bowl.
“They have everything they need in a wide-open year,” he said. “Why not the Patriots?”
