Patriots won, but their offense sputtered again as Drake Maye continues to look for answers

Coach Mike Vrabel said Monday only that it would be at least a few weeks before his return.

Onwenu was replaced by veteran Greg Van Roten, who was just signed in August. Van Roten started 17 games each of the last three seasons during stints with the Raiders and Giants, but he’s 36.

“We have to be able to do is create those opportunities for the next guy in and be able to coach everybody the same,” Vrabel said. “We ask everybody to show up each week and prepare as a starter.”

What’s working

One of the big points of emphasis this offseason was to improve the pass rush. That Patriots were all over Aaron Rodgers in Sunday’s win, sacking him four times and registering seven quarterback hits.

In addition to his late-game scoop-and-score, linebacker Elijah Ponder had one of the sacks, to go along with three tackles for a loss and two quarterback hits.

Undrafted in 2025, Ponder is the latest in a long line of undrafted players to make big impacts for the Patriots.

“Just taking advantage of my opportunities,” Ponder said. “Getting the chance to go out there, just play football with the guys and just be a part of the team. So, I’m really appreciative.”

What needs help