The New England Patriots have new heavy-hitting star talent on their roster for the upcoming 2026 NFL season, making them a top contender in the league and a team that will be exciting to watch all year long.
However, will they be the most exciting team to watch out of all the franchises in the league?
ESPN’s Ben Solak ranked the Patriots No. 5 overall in his evaluation of the most watchable and exciting teams that will keep viewers entertained this season.
“The schedule is tougher in 2026, which makes New England more watchable,” Solak said. “The Patriots' first-place schedule sets them against the Jaguars, Steelers and Seahawks in a season-opening Super Bowl rematch (fire me up!). They'll play the AFC West (Chiefs, Chargers and Broncos) and NFC
North (Lions, Packers, Vikings and Bears) -- all great opponents. With the marquee addition of A.J. Brown, they've added a top-tier receiver to meet the tougher schedule.”
In addition to the Patriots trading for an elite wide receiver with big-play prowess in Brown, Romeo Doubs gives them a WR2 who plays with fire on offense and makes big plays in the slot and on the outside. Mack Hollins is a smile-inducing sparkplug on the team, and TreVeyon Henderson runs with burst in the ground game.
Christian Gonzalez offers the most excitement for New England on defense and Kevin Byard led the league in interceptions last season with seven.
With Marcus Jones operating at a high level as the team’s slot corner and one of, if not the best, return specialists in the league, New England has the star power and strength as a contending unit to keep eyes on them all throughout the year.
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This article originally appeared on Patriots Wire: Patriots crack top five for most exciting teams to watch in 2026
