Two of the biggest difference makers for the Patriots in 2023 will be special teamers

Bryce Baringer - punter

The Patriots special teams has been uncharacteristically bad over the last few seasons, with punting being one of the weaker aspects of the unit.

With the decision to move on from Jake Bailey in the rearview mirror, who went on to sign with the Miami Dolphins, Belichick desperately needed to address the position quickly and early in the draft.

Fortunately, he did just that by taking Bryce Baringer out of Michigan State, one of the highest-ranked punters of the 2023 draft class.

It also marked the first time an NFL team drafted a punter and kicker in the same draft in 23 years, a very Belichick-ian move don't you think?

After Bailey was placed on injured reserve in November, Michael Palardy was signed in hopes of replacing the one-time All-Pro with the hopes of performing better than him, as well. But that didn't go according to plan, either.

With Palardy gone, the glaring punter issue still needed to be addressed. And that's when Baringer, who was drafted to the right team at the right time, came in.

Given the enormity of the importance of his position, Baringer is likely already a roster lock. Unless, for some reason, he comes out and performs similarly to the disaster that was Palardy, there's no way Baringer doesn't make the team.

Hopefully, he can help ensure we won't see two punt return touchdowns by the Bills again.