There is a lot to look forward to this upcoming Patriots season, which hasn't been something fans have been able to feel or say for what feels like an eternity. Things have quickly gone downhill since Tom Brady left the team in 2020, and then once Bill Belichick was let go after the 2023 season, all of which has led to the Mike Vrabel era beginning this year.
It has prompted a lot of nostalgia for longtime Patriots fans, especially those who were lucky enough to enjoy and witness the start of the two-decade-long dynasty run. Vrabel brings that old-school attitude that the team had been lacking and was much needed after the disastrous 2023 season.
That's why he led the charge in revamping the roster and elevating it to a level that has some analysts predicting a potential playoff run. A big reason for that is the Patriots' backfield, which also brings back an old storyline from the 2024 season that could be replicated this fall.
A unique common thread among the Patriots backfield could prompt a fascinating storyline this season
When looking at the Patriots' roster, there is something that stands out about the running back room; the last names of the group all end with the same letters.
Rhamondre Stevenson is set to return as the starter, with veteran Antonio Gibson right behind and rookie TreVeyon Henderson making his explosive debut. On top of that, before he was placed on season-ending injured reserve, UDFA Lan Larison was projected to make the team, rounding out the running back roster full of players with last names ending in -son.
The Patriots could have another story-making season like they did in 2014, when every point scored in a win over the Raiders was scored by a player whose last name ended with-kowski.
The Oakland kicker, Sebastian Janikowski, recorded three field goals for the Raiders' nine total points on the day. The Patriots' only touchdown of the game was scored by legendary tight end Rob Gronkowski and the extra point, along with three more field goals, were kicked by Stephen Gostkowski.
While that won't be the case for the Patriots this year, given their kicker doesn't share a similar last name, they could have several touchdowns scored by a running back group sharing the suffix.
It's just one of those weird coincidences that doesn't often happen in football that will make the Patriots 2025 season a bit more interesting to watch.