When you think of the New England Patriots' path back to the Super Bowl, you probably picture Tom Brady, a stout defense, or Bill Belichick's genius. But according to one NFL writer, the real reason for optimism this season is something far less flashy—and it all starts in the trenches.

Just three months after a heartbreaking Super Bowl loss to the Seattle Seahawks, the Patriots are already buzzing with quiet confidence. CBS Sports' Bryan DeArdo recently broke down why every team should feel hopeful this year, and for New England, the key is a dramatically improved offensive line.

"The Patriots made it to the Super Bowl last year, but did so in spite of the 47 sacks a shaky offensive line allowed upon Drake Maye," DeArdo wrote. "Maye also ate a whopping 21 sacks in the postseason." That kind of pressure can rattle any quarterback, but New England has made it a priority to fix the problem.

The Patriots aren't leaving anything to chance. After a rough 2025 season from offensive tackle Will Campbell, the team traded up to draft fellow tackle Caleb Lomu with the 28th overall pick. In free agency, they added former Jets first-round pick Alijah Vera-Tucker on a three-year deal. These aren't just depth signings—they're a statement that protecting the quarterback is job one.

But the upgrades don't stop in the backfield. New England also added former Packers wideout Romeo Doubs to give Maye another reliable target. And according to DeArdo, the biggest move might still be coming: "The Patriots are also expected to acquire Eagles Pro Bowl receiver A.J. Brown after June 1."

If that trade happens, watch out. A fortified offensive line, a young quarterback with more time to throw, and a superstar wideout like Brown could make the Patriots the team to beat in the AFC. Returning to the Super Bowl for a second straight year isn't just a hope—it's starting to look like a plan.