Two rookies from Alabama helped the New England Patriots return to the playoffs this season after a one-year absence.
The Patriots’ 7-9 showing in 2020 ended an 11-season run in the playoffs and broke a 19-year streak of winning seasons.
In the 2021 NFL Draft, New England used its first pick on Alabama quarterback Mac Jones and its second pick on Alabama defensive tackle Christian Barmore.
Jones started every game and Barmore played in every game as the Patriots posted a 10-7 record.
In 17 regular-season games, Jones completed 352-of-521 passes for 3,801 yards with 22 touchdowns and 13 interceptions and ran for 129 yards on 44 carries in his first season.