New England Patriots

Season	W/L	ATS	O/U	Pass Yds	Rush Yds	Pass%	Run%	3rd D
2016-17	14-2	13-3	6-10	3,806	1,417	54.36%	45.64%	46%
2015-16	12-4	7-7-2	9-7	4,587	1,404	63.52%	36.48%	41%
2014-15	12-4	9-7	9-7	4,121	1,727	59.59%	40.41%	44%
2013-14	12-4	8-8	9-7	4,087	2,065	57.98%	42.02%	37%
2012-13	12-4	9-7	11-5	4,662	2,184	57.03%	42.97%	49%

Season Outlook

What isn't there to love about the Patriots offense? They are as close to a true dynasty the NFL has seen, winning five super bowls in 15 seasons led by future Hall-of-Famer Tom Brady. Though Brady is entering his 16th season, there is no reason to believe he can't produce elite QB1 fantasy numbers. He missed the first four games due to a suspension yet posted his second-best completion percentage in a season with 67.4 percent while throwing 28 touchdowns to two interceptions. The main beneficiaries are WR Julian Edelman and, when healthy, TE Rob Gronkowski. Edelman's 1,106 receiving yards was the 13th best mark last season but only registered three touchdowns. Edelman was a WR1 last year, however, with the addition of speedy Brandin Cooks from the New Orleans Saints, expect Edelman's targets and receptions to decrease. Cooks had an astonishing 1,173 yards on 78 receptions and also posted WR1 numbers. It's uncertain if Gronkowski will be able to return for a full season. Nevertheless, he's too good not to have on your fantasy team. Prior to his injury riddled 2016 season, Gronkowski has posted phenomenal numbers playing in 30 games while racking up 2,300 yards on 154 receptions. Last season, he averaged 21.6 yards per reception in six games started. He's an elite receiving option and if deemed healthy, a top-10 fantasy producer. If he can't play, then second-string TE Dwayne Allen will be available in later rounds. The Patriots offense won't change at all, with head coach Bill Belichick entering his 16th season and offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels coaching in his ninth as a Patriot, their spread offense and usage of two TEs will continue to be a common occurrence. Their rushing game is just as good as their passing game, ranking 7th among NFL teams averaging 117 yards per game. It didn't matter who lined up at the tailback position for the Patriots last season, they were going to succeed. Either James White and Dion Lewis will likely split starting duties and are intriguing RB2 options in a star studded offense.

Player Outlooks & Draft Analysis

Quarterbacks
Tom Brady Julian Edelman will miss the first four games of the season, but he missed all of last year and Brady was just fine. Much has been made about the "Patriot way" and Belichick's dictatorial style by ex-players this offseason, but we shouldn't expect Brady and company to miss a beat on offense so feel free to pencil in a healthy Brady for top five QB numbers in nearly any format in 2018.

Defenses
New England Defense The Patriots allowed the fourth most yards last season but allowed the fifth-fewest points. An interesting dynamic they are attempting to build on this season, with some solid offseason acquisitions. They added NT Danny Shelton, DE Adrian Clayborn, and CB Jason McCourty. They will be under the helm of a new DC, Greg Schiano, but the decade-plus of pedigree within the organization should elevate their consistency. They were below league average in interceptions, and fumbles recovered but seventh overall in sacks. If they can stay at the same level as last year in terms of points allowed, while increasing their other numbers, (Interceptions, fumbles, and touchdowns) they have a chance to be a top 10 offense. If you have a chance to reach for them, I don't hate that idea, since they have the second easiest strength of schedule.

Player Updates

	James White, RB - James White (ankle) likely to sit out Week 17 31 Dec 2017 - 11:32am James White (questionable, ankle) is not expected to play Week 17 against the Jets. - From Rotoworld.
	Chris Hogan, WR - Chris Hogan not expected to play Week 17 31 Dec 2017 - 11:32am Chris Hogan (questionable, shoulder) is not expected to play Week 17 against the Jets. - From Rotoworld.
	Martellus Bennett, TE - Pats place Martellus Bennett on IR 27 Nov 2017 - 5:53pm Patriots placed TE Martellus Bennett (shoulder, hamstring) on injured reserve, ending his season. - From Rotoworld.
	Martellus Bennett, TE - Martellus Bennett expected to sit out Week 12 24 Nov 2017 - 6:27pm Martellus Bennett (shoulder, hamstring) is doubtful for Week 12 against Miami. - From Rotoworld.
	Chris Hogan, WR - Chris Hogan (shoulder) won't play Sunday 17 Nov 2017 - 5:43pm Chris Hogan (shoulder) is out for Week 11 against the Raiders. - From Rotoworld.