The Patriots won’t intentionally lose against the Bills in Week 18, even if a win would change their position in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Patriots head coach Jerod Mayo was asked how New England’s current draft position could impact their game plan. The first-year head coach has made his intentions clear, at least publicly.
“We were 100 percent focused on winning against the Buffalo Bills. That’s what we have to do,” Mayo said on a video conference Monday morning.
But Mayo kept the door open for potential player absences.
Patriots quarterback Drake Maye is under constant pressure and the “bell rang” during Saturday’s loss to the Chargers, but he may hold out given his physical standing. There is “absolutely” a chance that third-line quarterback Joe Milton III, who has not played in a game yet this season, will slot in behind center.
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As for the NFL Draft, the Patriots hold the No. 1 pick entering Week 18. New England moved up in the standings after the New York Giants defeated the Indianapolis Colts. After clinching the AFC’s No. 2 seed in the playoffs, a loss to the Bills, who have nothing to play for, would mean New England would have the No. 1 pick in April’s tournament.
