One thing the New England Patriots have always been better at than other teams in the NFL is staying ahead of the curve. Whether it is moving to a 3-4 defensive base alignment or using two tight end-sets to create one of the league’s most prolific offenses, the Patriots have always been at the forefront when it comes to innovation in pro football. And the next one might already be on the horizon.
It has become clear over the years that the NFL is a passing league. Rule changes in the early 2000s have made throwing the football easier than it has ever been, and teams have quickly adapted — following a blueprint created by the 2007 Patriots and their spread, 11-personnel looks.