Patriots Fall In New NFL Power Rankings After Steelers Loss

The New England Patriots faced a challenging matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Gillette Stadium on Sunday, resulting in a frustrating loss involving five turnovers.

The setback for New England led to a one-spot drop in Bleacher Report’s newest NFL power rankings (unveiled Monday), slipping the team from 24th to 25th. As the Patriots navigate the early stages of the 2025 season with rookie quarterback Drake Maye at the helm, this drop is a reminder that it might be another up-and-down season for the Pats.

Per usual, Maye showed flashes of potential on Sunday, completing passes under pressure, but the offense struggled to generate consistent scoring, finishing with just 14 points.

Bleacher Report’s Kris Knox provided analysis on the Patriots’ performance, noting: “The New England Patriots kept it close against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday. However, their defense couldn’t corral Aaron Rodgers and the Steelers when it mattered most, and a failed 4th-and-1 attempt on the ensuing drive sealed it.”

“The Patriots desperately need to find some defensive improvements because Drake Maye and the offense remain a work-in-progress,” Knox continued. “14 points won’t be enough to win many games. Reliable receivers remain elusive in New England, though 2024 receiving leader Hunter Henry did have a good outing in Week 3. Maye’s supporting cast is better than it was a year ago, but that doesn’t mean it’s particularly good.”

Is this going to be another rebuilding year for the Patriots? Without rapid improvements, the team risks lingering in the lower tiers of the league standings.

This loss to the Steelers serves as a reminder of the patience required during a transition period. The next few weeks will be telling as Mike Vrabel, Maye the Patriots seek to rebound and build momentum.