Julian Edelman speaks on the Patriots’ 2022 season outlook

It has been a bumpy road for the Patriots through the first four games of the 2022 season, with hopefully a smoother ride to come over the next several weeks. Currently sitting at a 1-3 record, placing them in last in the AFC East, many are questioning how the remainder of the season will look for New England.

In trying to diagnose the issues preventing the team from being much more successful, many have pointed the finger from Bill Belichick to Matt Patricia, all the way to blaming Mac Jones and his “second-year regression.” But no matter your stance on the current state and future of the Patriots, Julian Edelman made it clear what he thinks the team needs to focus on.

While filming Inside the NFL on Tuesday, the show’s Twitter account posted a video of Edelman expressing his opinion on the current state of his former team.

"“Will the Pats make the playoffs? Right now, they need to just worry about winning a game. It’s way too early in the season to think about the playoffs, especially when you’re on your third quarterback, Zappe.”"

He isn’t wrong in his assessment, nor has he strayed too far from his Patriots mentality. Sticking completely to the game you’re currently preparing for is typical for the Belichick-led team and will become even more important as they continue working through the struggles they’ve faced all season long.

Despite the circumstances that occurred in their game against Green Bay, there was a lot of encouraging performance from both sides of the ball. Bailey Zappe being thrust into starting in his first NFL game, against an Aaron Rodgers-led Packers team made his debut that much more impressive. Regardless of the loss, taking a moral victory seemed the most appropriate after what could’ve been a completely disastrous day.

Edelman went on to share those sentiments, while also acknowledging his former team still has a lot to figure out as the season rolls on.

"“It was still great to see the Pats compete against Green Bay in Lambeau. And that’s what they’re going to be: They’re going to be a competitive football team. But it’s real right now. Right now, they can’t think about the playoffs. They need to think about winning a game. They have to think about winning a game.”"

With the five games currently separating them from their bye in week ten, the Patriots have a good chance to pile some wins against what should be easier opponents than who they’ve faced thus far. Three of the upcoming games will be played in New England, which (should) be a bonus as home-field advantage can benefit a team needing a win.

The Patriots’ schedule leading to their bye:

• Week 5: vs Detroit Lions
• Week 6: @ Cleveland Browns
• Week 7: vs Chicago Bears
• Week 8: @ New York Jets
• Week 9: vs Indianapolis Colts

As for making the playoffs? Edelman’s approach to the question should be where everyone’s mind is; the post-season is too far away, focus on what is in front of you right now. That’s what matters and is likely what Belichick is repeating to this team. The Patriots have a lot to clean up before even allowing the playoffs to creep into their minds. And hopefully, they can start on their road to success with a win against the Lions this upcoming Sunday.