Very early look at the Patriots 2023 schedule of games
We do know who the New England Patriots will face in the 2023 season. Let’s take a very early look at their slate of games in a crucial season. It’s no secret that the Patriots need to have a solid season this year if the current regime wants to stay in place.
The Pats got to work this offseason and perhaps their most crucial move thus far has been to bring back Bill O’Brien and insert him as the offensive coordinator. They also signed Mike Gesicki, JuJu Smith-Schuster, and James Robinson to help bolster the offense.
More underrated signings include swing tackles Riley Reiff and Calvin Anderson, who are both spot starter potential. What is interesting is that the Pats have been involved in wide receiver rumors this offseason, but it doesn’t seem like they plan on making a move for one.
It’s likely that they head to the 2023 NFL Draft with wide receiver at the top of their list.
Let’s take a gander at their 2023 schedule.
Very early look at the Patriots 2023 schedule of games
They have their normal six divisional games against the Buffalo Bills, Miami Dolphins, and New York Jets.
They also play the entire AFC West: Denver Broncos, Las Vegas Raiders, Kansas City Chiefs, and Los Angeles Chargers.
They play the entire NFC East: Washing Commanders, New York Giants, Dallas Cowboys, and Philadelphia Eagles.
They also play the Indianapolis Colts, Pittsburgh Steelers, and New Orleans Saints.
Starting with the divisional games, and man, I don’t think I can make an argument for the Pats to win more than two of these especially if the Jets do indeed land Aaron Rodgers.
Could they steal one against the young Dolphins and either the Jets or Bills? Maybe. The Pats have the worst roster in the AFC East and likely worst QB situation.
The AFC West could also be much better in 2023. I think the Broncos take a huge leap, the Chiefs stay about the same, and the Chargers don’t drastically improve or regress.
Perhaps the Patriots could win their contest against the Raiders.
The NFC East could be a behemoth to get through, especially if the Commanders have something in Sam Howell, because I could argue that all of the Eagles, Cowboys and Giants either got better or stayed the same.
Their best hope at some “easy” wins are the Colts, Steelers, and Saints. The Colts are clearly rebuilding, and I’m quite low on the Steelers with Kenny Pickett.
The Saints might contend in the NFC South with Derek Carr, but Carr isn’t special.
I honestly have a hard time getting to five wins in 2023 unless something drastic changes.