
Patriots' rapid ascent reshapes the AFC playoff landscape
Patriots' quick rise to the AFC's summit under coach Mike Vrabel signals a broader shift in the conference, driven by a strong 2025 draft class and a rising young quarterback, with other teams like Jacksonville and Denver proving that the Chiefs-era parity is returning. The piece also cautions that sustaining success will require smart roster decisions as elite QBs command bigger salaries and teams must balance long-term depth with star power.













