Former Patriots Vice President of Player Personnel Scott Pioli has pointed to New England's struggles in 2020 as a natural consequence of the team's roaring success over the past five years.
The Patriots enter Monday night's clash with the winless New York Jets 2-5, third in the AFC East and on a four-game losing streak amid their worst start to a season since 2000.
Speaking on his weekly radio slot on WEEI last Monday, head coach Bill Belichick cited salary cap problems as a reason for the team's current situation, although he stressed he isn't using that as an excuse.