One major problem for the Patriots last season was a lack of discipline and penalties. The team had more than 10 accepted penalties in two games in 2024 - both losses - and finished the year with a whopping 111 accepted penalties for 916 yards, compared to 89 penalties for 676 yards in Bill Belichick's final season in 2023.
Jerod Mayo's lone season in New England lacked discipline, and it started with a locker room that resembled a country club. Mike Vrabel completely turned that around when he came in as head coach, and the factor of discipline that was a focal point of the dynasty-era Patriots appeared to be on its way back.
That was evident in New England's 48-14 pounding of the Washington Commanders in its preseason opener, as the Patriots only committed two penalties for 15 yards. Meanwhile, Washington committed 13 penalties for 98 yards, and New England was able to take advantage of most of them.
Giving opponents free first downs and constantly playing behind the chains because of holding or procedure penalties is a surefire path to losing records, and the Patriots' 4-13 record in 2024 reflected in the lack of discipline on the field. But that appears to be changing.
Mike Vrabel's influence is already rubbing off on the Patriots on the field
The attitude of the new-look Patriots was on full display in joint practices with Washington, with rookie left tackle Will Campbell winning more one-on-one matchups than he lost, but the biggest noise is clearly coming from New England's new head coach.
Having played for Belichick and won three Super Bowls in New England, Vrabel understands situational football very well, and avoiding penalties is a big part of that. Part of why the offensive line was so bad last season was that they were constantly forced to hold, and were putting Drake Maye behind the chains far too often.
Penalties were a huge problem for New England in 2024. You can argue all you want about how inconsistent officiating is throughout the NFL, but the fact of the matter is that the players' attitudes often reflect that of their head coach.
And the Patriots are hearing Vrabel's message loud and clear, and it could be a major factor in the team's success this season.