Rick Spielman saw it all in 21 seasons as a general manager and senior-level executive with the Vikings and Dolphins. He won division titles, reached a conference championship game, and suffered through losing seasons and fired coaches.
When asked what will make this season a success for the Patriots, his answer was succinct.
“Patience,” Spielman said.
This season could be a long one in Foxborough as coach Jerod Mayo and executive vice president of player personnel Eliot Wolf take over for Bill Belichick.
The Patriots are coming off a 4-13 season that was the franchise’s worst in 31 years.