New England Patriots 2026 Predictions

Where we have them finishing

• Nick: 13-4 — still alive, they are 0-1
• Nico: 11-6 — still alive, they are 0-1
• Brooklyn: 12-5 — still alive, they are 0-1

Why

Aside from all the off season drama, this is a team who acquired AJ Brown after just making a Superbowl. With their whole team from last year returning along with key pieces like Kevin Byard and Vera Tucker and fully healthy O Line, it is really hard to count this team out from winning the AFC again.
— Nick, 13-4

The Patriots spent good assets on A.J. Brown and Romeo Doubs, but the strength of schedule will make this team look worse then they are. I see them winning some close matchups, but their first four weeks are not forgiving.
— Nico, 11-6

Drake Maye was exceptional last season (4,394 yards, 31 TDs, 113.5 passer rating) but struggled in the playoffs, setting up a real breakout year. A.J. Brown gives him a true WR1, and Maye could provide more consistency than Hurts did in Philadelphia. The Patriots have the talent to repeat last year’s success, but the tougher schedule keeps me at 12-5.
— Brooklyn, 12-5

The 2026 schedule

• Week 1 — at Seattle Seahawks (L)
• Week 2 — vs Pittsburgh Steelers
• Week 3 — at Jacksonville Jaguars
• Week 4 — at Buffalo Bills
• Week 5 — vs Las Vegas Raiders
• Week 6 — vs New York Jets
• Week 7 — at Chicago Bears
• Week 8 — at Miami Dolphins
• Week 9 — vs Green Bay Packers
• Week 10 — at Detroit Lions
• Week 12 — at Los Angeles Chargers
• Week 13 — vs Buffalo Bills
• Week 14 — vs Minnesota Vikings
• Week 15 — at Kansas City Chiefs
• Week 16 — at New York Jets
• Week 17 — vs Denver Broncos
• Week 18 — vs Miami Dolphins