Patriots ranked as NFL’s biggest offseason losers despite major acquisitions
The reigning AFC Champions were singled out for controversy and schedule difficulty, drawing criticism for the omission of key player signings.
CBS Sports analyst Jordan Dajani has listed the New England Patriots as one of the NFL’s biggest offseason losers, a ranking that has drawn sharp criticism for overlooking significant roster additions. The analysis, published in the network’s 14 May 2026 newsletter, cited internal controversy and predicted performance regression for the 2026 season, despite the Patriots entering the period as reigning AFC Champions.
Dajani’s assessment focused heavily on the public dispute involving head coach Mike Vrabel and reporter Dianna Russini. The analyst referenced photos published by the New York Post and Page Six, describing Vrabel’s press conference comments as "worthless word salad" and noting a resignation letter from Russini. Dajani argued that the narrative surrounding the drama was being avoided by some, yet insisted it remained the defining story of the offseason for New England.
The ranking has been widely criticised for omitting the Patriots’ acquisition of wide receivers A.J. Brown and Romeo Doubs. Brown, a three-time All-Pro, was signed to address a critical roster weakness, while Doubs was acquired from a perennial playoff team. Critics noted that Dajani’s lengthy analysis of the Patriots’ offseason failed to mention these names, effectively ignoring the talent added to address the team’s most pressing needs.
Furthermore, the list excluded the Miami Dolphins, who experienced substantial personnel losses including their starting quarterback, head coach, and two best wide receivers. The omission of Miami, despite the scale of their departures, has been cited as evidence of the list’s skewed perspective. The Patriots, conversely, are viewed by many observers as having strengthened their squad significantly while managing off-field distractions.
Dajani predicted the Patriots would be the "prime regression candidate in 2026," citing their 14-3 record from the previous season as aided by the easiest schedule since the turn of the millennium. With the 2026 fixture list ranked as the sixth-toughest in the league, the analyst suggested the team’s performance would decline. However, this view contrasts with expectations that New England will dominate the AFC East and secure a second consecutive playoff appearance.
