The Patriots are looking to turn a new page in 2025, with a new coaching staff and several new additions, the goal is to return to contender status. 

After a challenging 2024 season, the pressure is on several Patriots players to step up and deliver. If the Patriots are going to meet the lofty expectations set for them under first year coach Mike Vrabel, several key contributors will need to rise to the occasion this season. 

Here are 10 Patriots who need to make a significant impact in the upcoming 2025 season:

1. Drake Maye, QB: The spotlight will undoubtedly shine brightest on the young quarterback. As the starting quarterback and face of the franchise, Maye’s development and performance will be the single most crucial factor in the Patriots’ success this upcoming season. A strong sophomore season is essential for the team to show genuine progress. Josh McDaniels returning as offensive coordinator ensures that Maye will be coached the right way and that his development will continue. I expect Maye to take the next step this season. 

2. Stefon Diggs, WR: Acquired to give Maye a bona fide top target, Diggs carries immense expectations. His ability to consistently get open and make contested catches will elevate the entire passing game. After tearing his ACL last season, Diggs looks like he is ahead of schedule and his return gives this offense the number one receiver they have lacked since 2018.

3. Christian Barmore, DT: After a season marred by a blood clot, Barmore is back and looking to be the disruptive force on the interior defensive line that the Patriots got a glimpse of in 2023. In 2025, Barmore needs to elevate his game to a Pro Bowl level, consistently pressuring quarterbacks and stuffing the run. He’s a cornerstone of the defense. He and Milton Williams are poised to form one of the best interior tandems in the NFL. 

4. Christian Gonzalez, CB: After a promising rookie season was cut short by injury, Gonzalez bounced back last season and proved why he is one of the best cornerbacks in the NFL. His ability to lock down the other team’s top receiver will be critical for a defense that relies on strong secondary play to complement its pass rush and blitz package. Expect Gonzalez to take another step in his development and be one of the leaders of the Patriots secondary.

5. TreVeyon Henderson, RB: The rookie running back from Ohio State is expected to form a dynamic duo with Rhamondre Stevenson. Henderson’s versatility and explosiveness will be an asset to the Patriots offense. His presence will open up play-action opportunities for the offense both underneath and over the top. Henderson’s role will expand as the season goes on. He should see a lot of snaps on third down. It is where he will make plays as a receiver but more importantly, help protect Maye in pass protection. 

6. Will Campbell, OT: Left tackle has been a black hole for the Patriots in recent years. If Campbell can win the starting job and lock down it down as a rookie, he will solidify a position that has been a problem for the Patriots the past six seasons. The pressure is on but Campbell seems like he’s capable of handling it. Campbell’s arm length will be a focal point in training camp. 

7. Kyle Dugger, S: The Patriots need Dugger to get back to being a 3X3 safety who can impact the game in a multitude of ways. He will get the opportunity to wear multiple hats in the Vrabel, Williams one gap defense. Look for Dugger to play closer to the ball and to be an active participant in run support and blitz packages. He will definitely be more active in this scheme than he was in Belichick and Mayo’s schemes. 

8. Hunter Henry, TE: As a veteran presence and reliable target, Henry will be important for Maye’s comfort and progression. His ability to convert third downs and be a red-zone threat will provide much-needed stability to the passing game. We all know that McDaniels emphasizes the tight end in the passing game so expect more production from Henry and Austin Hooper this season. 

9. Harold Landry III, LB: Landry brings a proven pass-rushing presence to the Patriots’ defense. His ability to generate pressure and sack opposing quarterbacks will be crucial for a unit that has struggled to generate pressure the last few seasons. Landry needs to be a tone setter for this defense. Especially early in the season. 

10. DeMario Douglas, WR: “Pop” Douglas has showed flashes of brilliance during his first two seasons in the league but he needs to become a more consistent and reliable threat in the slot. His quickness and elusiveness will be vital for short-to-intermediate routes and generating yards after the catch. Schematically he should be a great fit in McDaniels offense. His production should improve. He needs to make an impact this season. 

The success of the 2025 Patriots will hinge on these players, among others, performing at a high level and making the impact needed to elevate the team back into playoff contention.