Patriots: 3 overlooked players that have potential to be team MVP in 2021

The New England Patriots are clearly feeling the pressure to perform and get back into the playoffs in 2021 after they finished with their worst record in 13 years last campaign.

Nothing proved that more than Bill Belichick spending the most money he’s ever let loose in free agency since he was handed the keys to the franchise way back in 2000. That strategy flew in the face of his roster-building philosophy, but it seems to have worked in the sense that the Pats, at least on paper, have their most balanced roster in recent memory.

While this roster flaunts a ton of star power — like Cam Newton, Stephon Gilmore, Matt Judon,  Dont’a Hightower and David Andrews — it says a lot about its depth that it has a legion of overlooked players that could emerge as potential team MVP candidates next season.

So, which three players stand out compared to the rest of the bunch?

Three three players can be the Patriots’ team MVP in 2021.

3. Isaiah Wynn

We can all agree that the success of the Patriots in 2021 will hinge on their quarterback play, right? Well, in order for Cam Newton and Mac Jones to realize their full potential, they’ll have to be put in a position to succeed as well. And it all starts with the offensive line.

New England surprisingly overhauled their OL this offseason, and the finished product leaves Isaiah Wynn as the incumbent starter at left tackle. It goes without saying LT is the most important position along the offensive line, and Newton (and Jones) will exude a lot more confidence under center if their respective blindsides are protected.

That makes Wynn a potentially invaluable player for the Patriots next season.

Isaiah Wynn could make or break the Patriots’ offense in 2021.

The narrative surrounding Wynn over his first couple seasons has been injury-related, which is unfortunate considering how strong he’s looked when he’s played. Over his first three years, Wynn’s played just 18 games, though he managed a career-high (10) last season.

The Patriots decided to pick up Wynn’s fifth-year option this offseason, so they clearly have big plans for their 2018 first-round pick. In those 10 contests, he logged an elite 82.6 blocking grade from Pro Football Focus, allowing just two penalties and three sacks over 641 snaps.

We all know how much better quarterbacks look when they aren’t looking over their shoulder concerned about their left tackle getting steamrolled. If Wynn holds up his end of the bargain in  2021, the Patriots’ offense could be even more dangerous than fans are anticipating.