THE New England Patriots closed out their 2024 NFL season on a bittersweet note, beating the Buffalo Bills 23-16 in Week 18. Although the victory showed flashes of promise from their young players, it also cost the team the coveted first overall picka potential franchise-changing asset in the next draft.
Joe Milton III shines in unexpected opportunity
The game started with the rookie first round pick Drake Maye at quarterback, but after an unconvincing first series of offense, the Patriots looked to the sixth round Joe Milton III. The rookie was able to stand out significantly, taking full advantage of his chance to shine against the Buffalo substitutes.
- Milton Statistics:
- 18/24 passes, 241 yards, 1 TD
- 19 yards au sol, 1 TD au sol
Milton achieved a 48 yard touchdown bomb has Kayshon Bouttewho achieved his best performance of the year with seven receptions for 117 yards. The chemistry between the two offered a glimpse of hope for New England’s offensive future.
The attack shows glimmers of life
While Milton impressed through the air, the Patriots’ ground game remained disappointing:
- Antonio Gibson et Terrell Jennings combined only 61 yards with 3.1 yards per carry.
- The racing struggles have highlighted an area of concern heading into the offseason.
However, the special teams delivered a flawless performance as the kicker Joey Slye converted all three of his field goal attempts, including a 50-yarder, and added two more points.
Defense remains solid
The Patriots defense had a strong outing, limiting Buffalo’s backup quarterbacks Mitchell Trubisky et Mike White only 129 passing yards and only one touchdown. They also limited the Bills’ ground attack to 130 yards with 3.9 yards per carrya respectable effort against a race-focused approach.
Victory has a price
The victory improved the Patriots’ record to 4-13matching their disastrous 2023 campaign. However, this eliminated them from the race for the first overall draft pickwhich would have given them the option to select a generational talent or move down to get a large number of picks. Instead, New England is now projected to choose fourth in the 2025 NFL Draft, which could change their rebuilding plans.
What’s next for New England?
With the season over, the Patriots face critical decisions this offseason:
- The Future of Jerod Mayo : Reports suggest the head coach is in danger after a second straight 4-13 season.
- Confrontation at the quarterback position : Although Milton’s performance was promising, the Patriots must decide whether to stick with their current young quarterbacks or explore options in free agency or the draft.
- Reconstruction strategy : Falling to pick No. 4 limits their ability to secure blue-chip talent, making trades or shrewd scouting essential.
A Step Forward or Just a Passing Episode?
While the win against Buffalo offers a glimmer of optimism, the Patriots’ long-term trajectory remains uncertain. With huge questions surrounding coaching, quarterback development and roster construction, this offseason will be crucial in determining whether New England can begin to emerge from its post-Brady decline or continue to stagnate in mediocrity .
