New England Patriots - NESN.com
The New England Patriots haven’t won the AFC East in the post-Tom Brady era. Along with taking a significant leap, they’ll need the division’s new kingmaker to regress in 2025.
The Buffalo Bills have captured five consecutive division titles, alternating from 13 to 11 wins every year. No other team is a stronger favorite to win their division this season than Buffalo (-300) on DraftKings Sportsbook.
While the Bills are unlikely to free-fall behind MVP quarterback Josh Allen, one NFL writer questioned their championship credentials last week. The Athletic’s Mike Jones labeled the Bills among his most “overrated” NFL teams.
Jones noted that Buffalo may receive improved play from its wide receivers, but he wondered about running back James Cook’s contract situation and a defense that ranked 17th last season.
“… Can a defense hit hard by injury in 2024 better support Allen and company this season?” Jones asked. “The Bills already know they’ll be without defensive linemen Michael Hoecht and Larry Ogunjobi for six games as both serve suspensions for violating the NFL’s performance-enhancing drug policy. The team hopes free agent acquisition Joey Bosa can help bolster its pass rush, but the oft-injured Bosa already suffered a calf injury in May (he’s expected back for training camp). A shaky defense against Patrick Mahomes and Lamar Jackson isn’t ideal.”
The Bills slipped past the Baltimore Ravens last postseason, but they again fell short of the Super Bowl when losing 32-29 to the Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC Championship Game.
A secondary that allowed a 68.5 completion percentage last season remains a question mark. And while the Patriots have one of 2025’s most favorable schedules, the Bills encounter the Ravens, Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles in a tougher slate.
The Patriots could at least make the AFC East more interesting if they progress as much as some onlookers anticipate under head coach Mike Vrabel.
