Who are the most important players on the Patriots' roster heading into 2023?

Who are the most important players on the Patriots' roster heading into 2023?
4. Mac Jones

The most important player on the New England Patriots for the 2023 season is Mac Jones. We've told the story of Mac Jones numerous times so far on this website. Simply put, he needs to bounce back in 2023 or he'll find himself out of a starting job with the Patriots.

Bailey Zappe is also breathing down his neck. He played better than Jones in 2022, and I don't think the offensive staff would hesitate to put the second-year player in if Jones struggles.

The offense will go as Mac Jones goes. I think what we'll see in 2023 is the offense operating as a run-heavy unit, featuring Rhamondre Stevenson and James Robinson a ton. Bill O'Brien will likely not ask Mac Jones to do too much, or will slowly peel him back and put more on his plate as needed.

That might be the best way to get Mac Jones to play the way he needs to. I think his leash is very short, and we may see just how short in 2023.