Patriots Veteran Spillane Assists Playcalling Amid Coordinator Absence

The New England Patriots have made significant changes to their roster and coaching staff ahead of the 2025 season, focusing heavily on improving both offense and defense. On offense, they bolstered their wide receiver corps by adding veterans Stefon Diggs and Mack Hollins, with Hollins emerging as a potentially key target for quarterback Drake Maye due to his size and versatility, despite a career marked by movement across multiple teams. On defense, the Patriots' defensive coordinator Terrell Williams has stepped away temporarily for health reasons, leading inside linebackers coach Zak Kuhr, new to the team, to take over his duties with strong support from veteran linebacker Robert Spillane. Spillane, a major offseason signing, has been praised as a coach-like presence on the field, relaying calls and even calling plays, greatly aiding Kuhr's transition and potentially becoming a defensive leader. Additionally, the Patriots' 2025 rookie class shows promise, with comparisons drawn between their top draft picks and established NFL standouts, suggesting potential significant improvements in key positions like offensive tackle and running back. These roster and coaching adjustments collectively position the Patriots to address past weaknesses and improve their competitiveness in the upcoming NFL season.