Readers Say
“The Patriots need to improve their offensive line. It is the glaring weakness on this team,” one respondent said.
After the Patriots’ Super Bowl LX loss to the Seattle Seahawks, Boston.com readers were nearly unanimous about one thing: the offensive line has to improve.
Of the 163 responses to our poll, 79% of respondents said they weren’t surprised by the loss — and many pointed squarely to the team’s offensive line struggles as the reason why. Just over 20% said they were surprised by the loss.
Were you surprised by the Patriots’ loss against the Seattle Seahawks?
“Revamp the offensive line!” wrote Trent W. of Hyde Park, a sentiment echoed throughout the submissions.
Deb from Millbury urged the team to “work on adding additional talent in the receiver corps and build up that offensive line to protect the quarterback.”
David from Quincy agreed, saying the Patriots “need big time help on both the offensive and defensive lines. A big wide receiver wouldn’t hurt either.”
Others went even deeper on the connection between line play and postseason success. “The last two Super Bowl champions were decided in the trenches, where quarterback pressure made the difference,” wrote Chris C. of North Andover. “The formula is straightforward: protect your quarterback with a stronger offensive line and disrupt theirs with a more dominant offensive front. That’s where you need to focus this offseason.”
In addition to retooling the line, readers called for improvements across the roster — from bolstering the defensive front to giving rookie quarterback Drake Maye more support and time to develop.
Below, Boston.com readers offer suggestions on how the Patriots should spend their offseason.
What do the Patriots need to do in the offseason?
“The offensive line needs a complete retooling. Will Campbell needs to move to the other side of the field, or into a guard position to keep him from getting beat to the outside edge. As always, a speedy, dependable slot receiver is on my wish list. Keep the defense around as much as you can — that unit was solid all year.” — Brad K., Watertown
“Do something about the offensive line, get a top quality WR and sign Gonzalez (who might’ve been their best player last night).” — Joni, Worcester
“As demonstrated once again this year, defense wins championships. The Patriots need to focus on bolstering the defensive line and linebackers. In addition, they need a few more pieces on the offensive line, as it was painfully obvious through the playoffs that the pass protection was not there. Finally, they need a new punter; a horrific performance in the playoffs.” — Peter, Newburyport
“Needed a shorter/quicker passing game to deal with the pressure. Douglas and Chism needed more targets.” — Bill B., Yarmouth, Maine
“Build a strong offensive line. Hopefully the young players learn from this experience and grow with the idea that they reach the highest game in the sport. Keep believing, next time the mistakes will be less, and they will win the Super Bowl. Don’t give up on Drake Maye, build him physically and mentally, teach him how to grow and become better.” — Ralph M., Medford
“The main thing is that the Patriots need to improve their offensive line. It is the glaring weakness on this team. It shows improvement from last year, however, it needs drastic improvement in order to allow Drake to operate this offense at a high level. Will Campbell has been a major disappointment. I thought he would help shore up the left side of the line, but he has been a huge liability allowing pressure on Drake on nearly every play.” — Joe D., The Woodlands, Texas
“Besides the offensive line struggles, Maye’s passes were off target, especially in the first half. 2026 needs an upgrade to offensive lineman and fill in the gap between edge rushers and linebackers.” — Doug E., East Taunton
“Given the offense’s meager production throughout the playoffs, I expected an outcome like this. Going into the offseason, I actually worry that Maye’s confidence will be impacted long-term by this game.” — Noah, Waterville, Maine
“A draft as good as last year. The previous drafts have been terrible and it showed yesterday.” — Peter J., Quincy
“In the offseason the Pats need to improve the offensive line, by both signing free agents, drafting young talent, and replacing the offensive line coach. Jeff Stoutland recently walked away from the dysfunctional Eagles organization. He would improve the offensive line immensely.” — Sam A., Braintree
“Time. Drake Maye and the rookies just need to get better. They should. We do need offensive line help, first and foremost. Perhaps another big-time receiver. On the defensive line of the ball, they need more takeaways. The old Pats did that time and again. This defense was good but needed to make more plays. Need another playmaker on defense.” — Jorge L., Rutland
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