The New England Patriots defense had an up-and-down year all 2017 long but found its groove late in the season. However, it ended its quest for a sixth Vince Lombardi Trophy on the lowest of notes: During the Patriots' loss in Super Bowl 52, the unit gave up a total of 538 net yards as well as 41 points to the Philadelphia Eagles and was unable to help out an offense productive enough to put the team in a position to win.
Four months removed from the game, a lot has changed for the group.