The New England Patriots have defied expectations throughout the 2025 NFL season, yet not everyone is convinced they can maintain their momentum. At 9-2, Mike Vrabel’s team sits atop the AFC East, led by rookie quarterback Drake Maye, who has quickly emerged as a legitimate MVP candidate. Still, some around the league believe the team’s success may be masking a deeper issue, a roster that lacks top-end talent compared to other contenders.
Bleacher Report’s midseason evaluation labeled the Patriots a “pretender for now,” arguing that the team’s victories have come largely against weaker opponents. Analysts cautioned that a soft schedule and a young, developing core could make New England vulnerable down the stretch when matched against playoff-caliber teams like the Buffalo Bills or Baltimore Ravens.
New England Patriots, Drake Maye, NFL
Sep 28, 2025; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye (10) throws a pass during warmups prior to a game against the Carolina Panthers at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-Imagn Images
The assessment painted the team as a disciplined, well-coached group capable of grinding out wins, but one still short on star power needed to push through January football. Contrary to those doubts, New England has proven remarkably resilient. Under Vrabel’s hard-nosed leadership, the defense ranks first against the run and among the league’s most efficient overall.
Meanwhile, Maye’s play has been anything but that of a rookie. The 23-year-old leads the league in completion percentage and ranks top five in touchdowns and passer rating while guiding New England on an eight-game winning streak. His ability to stay composed under pressure has turned skeptics into believers, even if national outlets remain cautious.
NFL Analysis Says New England Patriots’ Roster Lacks Talent
New England Patriots, Drake Maye, NFL
Sep 28, 2025; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye (10) stands on the field prior to a game against the Carolina Panthers at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-Imagn Images
New England’s roster this season may not be as great as fans think. This is detailed more in an analysis by Brad Gagnon for Bleacher Report.
Case for Pretender: The vast majority of the Patriots’ wins have come against soft opponents, and a roster that lacks talent compared to other contenders could have a difficult time sustaining this.
Verdict: Pretender, for now. This changes if they beat the Bills and Ravens next month, but that’ll be a tough task for a team that is still completing a rebuild. The Pats are a year away, but they are on the right track.
Some analysts have highlighted Maye’s humility amid his growing success, noting that the young quarterback consistently credits his teammates and coaching staff. He’s quick to emphasize winning above personal accolades, reflecting the team-first culture Vrabel has established. The team’s formula has been simple: consistency, ball security, and leadership that rarely blinks in big moments.
New England Patriots, Drake Maye, NFL
New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye (10) scrambles against the Tennessee Titans during the first quarter at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn., Sunday, Oct. 19, 2025.
As they prepare to visit the Cincinnati Bengals this weekend, New England faces another chance to validate its climb. A ninth consecutive win would further separate them from doubters and fortify their claim as a true contender.
Skeptics may continue to question whether a “talent-lacking” roster can sustain playoff success, but the Patriots seem intent on proving that discipline, focus, and an emerging superstar at quarterback can be just as valuable as raw talent on paper.
New England Patriots, Drake Maye
Sep 28, 2025; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye (10) walks onto the field prior to a game against the Carolina Panthers at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-Imagn Images
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