Title: Robert Kraft Sets Realistic Expectations for Patriots as Underdogs in 2023
Subtitle: New England Patriots owner embraces team’s underdog status, emphasizing a young roster and chemistry
Date: [Date]
In 1994, when Robert Kraft first acquired the New England Patriots, the team was far from a dynasty, struggling with an inconsistent record and consecutive last-place finishes in the AFC East. However, the arrival of Tom Brady in 2001 led the Patriots to unprecedented success. Now, with Brady’s departure in 2020 and some years of relative mediocrity, the Patriots seem to have come full circle under Robert Kraft’s ownership.
Projected by many to finish at the bottom of the AFC East, Kraft is embracing the team’s underdog status entering the 2023 season. Speaking at a recent ribbon-cutting ceremony for Gillette Stadium’s new renovations, Kraft expressed confidence in his young team’s chemistry. He acknowledged that being fourth in the division might motivate them further.
Highlighting the addition of offensive coordinator Bill O’Brien this offseason, Kraft gave a vote of confidence to head coach Bill Belichick, who has faced scrutiny in recent years. Kraft expressed his excitement about the team and praised the chemistry between O’Brien and rookie quarterback Mac Jones.
While Kraft has previously set high expectations for the team, he appears to be resetting those expectations this year. Speaking in June, he acknowledged the difficulty of the AFC East, referring to it as “the most difficult division in the NFL.” Kraft emphasized that the Patriots will face challenges in their quest to contend in 2023.
It is evident that Kraft wants his team to win games, but he seems to have shifted his approach from ultimatums to resetting expectations. Expectations were high after a disappointing 8-9 record last season, leading Kraft to promise “critical” offseason evaluations and the hiring of O’Brien as the offensive coordinator.
If the Patriots miss the playoffs for the third time in four years since Brady’s departure, consequences could follow next offseason. However, instead of threatening drastic changes, Kraft is hoping for a pleasant surprise and believes that his team can rise above the underdog label.
As the Patriots enter the 2023 season, the focus will be on their young roster, a renewed team chemistry, and the leadership of both Belichick and O’Brien. With Kraft scaling back expectations, the Patriots have an opportunity to exceed predictions and regain their place among the NFL’s elite.