Overview
- NFL Network hosts Jamie Erdahl and Kyle Brandt predicted both New England and Buffalo to make the AFC playoffs.
- Retired Patriots center David Andrews said New England could "easily win 10 games" and contend for a wild-card spot.
- A Boston Globe panel mostly forecast between 7 and 9 wins, pointing to depth concerns and questions at offensive line and wide receiver despite a manageable slate.
- Julian Edelman cautioned that winning the division is unrealistic right now, saying the AFC East still runs through Josh Allen and the Bills.
- NFL.com’s Eric Edholm ranked New England 22nd and cited ongoing roster churn, including the release of Jabrill Peppers, as the Patriots open vs. the Raiders and the Bills debut in primetime.