The New England Patriots have struggled significantly both on and off the field in recent years, tallying just eight wins over the last two seasons. This poor performance has left them at the bottom of their division and the NFLPA's latest survey saw them rank 31st out of 32 teams, ahead of only the Arizona Cardinals. Players expressed concerns about aspects such as the weight room and team travel, which received failing grades. Owner Robert Kraft acknowledged the team's culture issues and promised upgrades, particularly to travel facilities and training facilities slated for completion in 2026. Kraft emphasized the need for a positive environment to attract players back to Gillette Stadium.

The New England Patriots are aiming to restore their former glory after a tumultuous period following the departures of head coach Bill Belichick and quarterback Tom Brady. Mike Vrabel, a Patriots Hall of Famer, takes over as head coach, replacing Jerod Mayo, who struggled in his only season with a 4-13 record. Cornerback Christian Gonzalez notes that the team has become 'a little more lax' in the past couple of years, and he believes Vrabel's leadership will bring back the disciplined, team-first mentality synonymous with the 'Patriot Way.'

Gonzalez, having already experienced two head coaches in his brief career, reflects on the need for accountability and a focus on winning. Last season, he earned Second Team All-Pro honors despite the team’s struggles, highlighting that there were many close games that could have gone either way. With Vrabel's extensive coaching experience, including a successful tenure with the Tennessee Titans, the future looks promising to restore the Patriots' competitive edge.

The New England Patriots have terminated Jerod Mayo from his head-coaching role after just one season, following a disappointing 4-13 record. The decision came swiftly after a Week 18 loss, leaving some players surprised by the timing but not the outcome. Cornerback Jonathan Jones noted a range of reactions among teammates, with mixed feelings about Mayo's firing. Despite some questioning the fairness of the dismissal, the Patriots decided it was necessary, opting to replace Mayo with former linebacker Mike Vrabel, who had been a candidate weeks prior.

Throughout the season, Mayo's decisions were frequently criticized, from questionable in-game strategies to vague remarks during press conferences. The Patriots have been missing the playoffs for four of the last five seasons, and the organization evidently felt a change was crucial to turn the team's fortunes around.

The New England Patriots concluded their 2025 NFL season with a narrow 23-16 victory over the Buffalo Bills, but the win came at a significant cost. With their fourth win of the season, the Patriots dropped to the fourth overall pick in the upcoming NFL Draft, losing the chance for the coveted top selection. This game was followed by the termination of head coach Jerod Mayo, marking a pivotal moment for the franchise.

The outcome of this matchup also benefitted the Tennessee Titans, who, despite a loss to the Houston Texans, secured the top pick in the draft thanks to New England's win. This marks the Titans' first No. 1 pick since they traded their previous first pick in 2016 to the Los Angeles Rams, who selected quarterback Jared Goff.

In a significant shift for the New England Patriots, Robyn Glaser, the executive vice president of football business, has announced her resignation after 18 years with the organization. Her departure marks an important change within the Patriots' front office, where she has played a key role since joining the team in 2007.

Glaser, who has held multiple leadership positions, including senior vice president and chief administrative officer of football, will remain with the team until mid-February, allowing for a transition period. Her contributions to the team's legal and business affairs were substantial, and her exit is likely to have lasting implications for the franchise.