The Patriots entered Week 18 with a 4-12 record, tied with the Cleveland Browns, Tennessee Titans, and New York Giants. However, they hold a league-highest 78% chance at landing the pick thanks to their lower strength of schedule, giving them the tiebreaker.

And that’s part of why this shouldn’t be that difficult of a decision for the Patriots. Don’t play Drake Maye. Rest Christian Gonzalez, who is in the concussion protocol. Ensure the two pillars of this rebuild are ready to go for 2025.

The New England Patriots entered their Week 18 matchup against the Buffalo Bills without much to play for, but they earned a 23-16 victory over their division rival. New England started the game with Drake Maye under center,