The New England Patriots closed their 2024 NFL season on a bittersweet note, defeating the Buffalo Bills 23-16 in Week 18. While the victory showcased some flashes of promise from their young players, it also cost the team the coveted No. 1 overall pick, a potential franchise-altering asset in the upcoming draft.
Joe Milton III Shines in Unexpected Opportunity
The game began with rookie first-round pick Drake Maye at quarterback, but after a lackluster opening drive, the Patriots turned to sixth-rounder Joe Milton III. The rookie stepped up in a big way, taking full advantage of his chance to shine against Buffalo’s backups.
- Milton’s Stats:
- 18/24 passing, 241 yards, 1 TD
- 19 rushing yards, 1 rushing TD
Milton connected on a 48-yard touchdown bomb to Kayshon Boutte, who delivered his best performance of the year with seven receptions for 117 yards. The chemistry between the two provided a glimpse of hope for New England’s future offensive outlook.
Offense Shows Glimmers of Life
While Milton impressed through the air, the Patriots’ ground game remained underwhelming:
- Antonio Gibson and Terrell Jennings combined for just 61 yards on 3.1 yards per carry.
- The rushing struggles highlighted an area of concern heading into the offseason.
Special teams, however, delivered a flawless performance as kicker Joey Slye converted all three of his field-goal attempts, including a 50-yarder, and added two extra points.
Defense Holds Firm
The Patriots’ defense had a solid outing, containing Buffalo’s backup quarterbacks Mitchell Trubisky and Mike White to just 129 passing yards and a single touchdown. They also limited the Bills’ rushing attack to 130 yards on 3.9 yards per carry, a respectable effort against a run-heavy approach.
Victory Comes at a Cost
The win improved the Patriots’ record to 4-13, matching their dismal 2023 campaign. However, it knocked them out of contention for the No. 1 overall draft pick, which would’ve given them the option to select a generational talent or trade down for a bounty of picks. Instead, New England is now projected to pick fourth in the 2025 NFL Draft, potentially altering their rebuilding plans.
What’s Next for New England?
With the season in the books, the Patriots face critical decisions this offseason:
- Jerod Mayo’s Future: Reports suggest the head coach is on the hot seat after a second straight 4-13 season.
- Quarterback Battle: While Milton’s performance was promising, the Patriots must decide whether to stick with their current young quarterbacks or explore options in free agency or the draft.
- Rebuilding Strategy: Falling to the No. 4 pick limits their ability to secure top-tier talent, making trades or savvy scouting essential.
A Step Forward or Just a Blip?
While the win over Buffalo provides a sliver of optimism, the Patriots’ long-term trajectory remains uncertain. With massive questions looming about coaching, quarterback development, and roster construction, this offseason will be pivotal in determining whether New England can begin to climb out of its post-Brady slump or continue to languish in mediocrity.