Patriots Fall Short, AFC East Rivals Rise in Playoff Predictions

NFL analyst Chris Broussard predicts that three teams from the AFC East, excluding the New England Patriots, will make the playoffs in the upcoming 2024 season.

The 2024 NFL season is just around the corner, and with it comes the excitement of predictions and projections. Chris Broussard, an NFL analyst for Fox Sports' "First Things First," has revealed his bold predictions for the AFC East standings, including why he believes three teams from the division will make the playoffs, leaving the Patriots on the outside looking in.

Broussard's reasoning for excluding the Patriots from the playoff picture stems from their uncertain quarterback situation and lack of proven playmakers. While Jacoby Brissett has been named the starter for the time being, his performance in Week 1 against the Cincinnati Bengals was far from convincing. Brissett threw for a mere 121 yards and no touchdowns, raising concerns about his ability to lead the Patriots to a winning season.

Patriots Fall Short, AFC East Rivals Rise in Playoff Predictions

Furthermore, the Patriots' offense lacks the elite talent that has been synonymous with the franchise in recent years. Gone are the likes of Tom Brady, Rob Gronkowski, and Julian Edelman, leaving the team with a group of unproven receivers and a running game that heavily relies on Rhamondre Stevenson.

Meanwhile, the other three teams in the AFC East have made significant improvements to their rosters. The Buffalo Bills remain the favorites with quarterback Josh Allen at the helm and a plethora of offensive weapons, including Stefon Diggs and Gabriel Davis. The Miami Dolphins have added Tyreek Hill and Raheem Mostert to their offense, giving quarterback Tua Tagovailoa the tools he needs to succeed. And the New York Jets have bolstered their defense with the additions of D.K. Metcalf and C.J. Mosley, making them a dark horse candidate for a playoff berth.

Patriots Fall Short, AFC East Rivals Rise in Playoff Predictions

Broussard's predictions paint a bleak picture for the Patriots, who have long been dominant in the AFC East. However, it is important to remember that these are just predictions, and the Patriots have proven time and time again that they can defy expectations. With a strong running game led by Stevenson and a defense that showed promising signs in Week 1, the Patriots have the potential to surprise skeptics and make a run for the playoffs.

But for now, Broussard's predictions serve as a reminder that the AFC East is a competitive division, and the Patriots may have to fight harder than ever to secure a playoff berth.

Patriots Fall Short, AFC East Rivals Rise in Playoff Predictions