New England Patriots
After the departure of Tom Brady to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, it appears many wrote off the New England Patriots too soon. They have since signed Cam Newton to add quarterback competition and were already well-positioned to compete in the AFC East in 2020.
The Buffalo Bills will remain the Patriots’ top competitor in the division standings for the upcoming season. What helps New England most with the Jamal Adams trade is that the New York Jets will have a tougher time contending for the No. 2 spot.
Not having to go up against such a dynamic safety like Jamal Adams will help the Patriots in the running game, perhaps more than any other team in the AFC East. New England can get creative with how they involve Newton’s running ability without worrying about Adams as a sub-linebacker.
Something to also consider, the Jets will not be able to send Adams as a pass-rusher as they have so effectively in recent years. That will play a key role in Newton’s success when operating from inside the pocket as a passer, but also on potential roll outs.
The head-to-head matchups in the AFC East will be vital when it comes to how the standings will unfold. The Patriots now stacking up better with the Jets will undoubtedly have a positive influence on their ability to at least make a run at a Wild Card spot in 2020.
