Analyst Nick Wright is not high on the New England Patriots and quarterback Drake Maye heading into the 2026 season.

The Patriots had a remarkable 2025 campaign. They finished with a 14-3-record on the year. This was a turnaround from 4-13 and 2024. The 10-game improvement from the 2024 season tied the 1999 Indianapolis Colts and 2008 Miami Dolphins for the best single-season turnaround in NFL history. On top of this, they were able to finish strong on the road. They went 8-0 away from the friendly confines of Gillette Stadium.

Their success was also aided by a large win streak. They recorded 10 consecutive wins between Weeks 4 and 13.

They were able to grind through the playoffs late. This included a 16-3 win over the Los Angeles Chargers in the wildcard game. They were able to take care of business against the Houston Texans and the divisional game by a 28-16 margin. They defeated the Denver Broncos in the snow, 10-7, before falling to the Seattle Seahawks in the Super Bowl by a 29-13 score. Overall, it was a remarkable season for a team that was not expected to have a fast turnaround.

Wright Is Doubting Patriots

Wright does not believe that the Patriots will have the same level of success in 2026. He made this clear on the First Things First show on Wednesday afternoon.

“I think across the board, he will take a step back next year…I think his numbers will take a huge hit. I think the team’s record will take a huge hit.”

Patriots Had Many Keys To Success in 2025

The Patriots had many key components to their success. Quarterback Drake Mave took a tremendous second-year leap. He threw for 4,394 yards, 31 touchdowns, and eight interceptions. He led the NFL in completion percentage at 72% and passer rating at 113.5.

Stefon Diggs was able to record 1,013 receiving yards. He accomplished a milestone in the process. The wideout became the first Patriots receiver since Julian Edelman in 2019 record over 1,000 yards.

Defensively, the Patriots were able to get help from their playmakers as well. Christian Gonzalez was named the first trouble of his career. Cornerback\punt returner Marcus Jones was named to the All-Pro second team. The Houston product had a tremendous year, returning two kicks for touchdowns.

Overall, it was a banner year for many Patriots players. The schedule was favorable, and development was done at a high level. The Patriots have the sixth-hardest schedule in the NFL next season. There could be some regression to be had. Even still, this seems like a bold take on the part of Wright.

The Patriots will be returning most of the cast from this particular group. The schedule may be a little bit more challenging, but this group will have experience with a deep playoff run and a longer postseason under their belt. Mike Vrabel worked to establish a winning culture last season. It paid off in a big way, as the Patriots were able to return to the playoffs for the first time since the 2021 season.

Time will tell what they will do for a follow-up act. They may not be as successful as last season, but they could have a chance to make some noise in what is becoming a crowded AFC.