Patriots face Seahawks in Wednesday night opener as Drake Maye seeks win on the road
Quarterback Drake Maye will start for New England against a Seattle defense that returned most starters, while the Patriots' backfield and receiving corps adjust to new roles.
New England quarterback Drake Maye will open the season on the road against the Seattle Seahawks, who returned nine of their eleven starters. Seattle's defense ranked among the league's lowest in fantasy points allowed to quarterbacks and posted the fewest yards per pass attempt, while also generating a high sack total.
Maye will be the first to play with the Patriots' newly acquired top receivers A.J. Brown and Romeo Doubs. The analysis notes that Brown, 29, received positive feedback at training camp despite a modest showing last season, and that Maye is expected to be the most effective passer he has faced.
Running back Rhamondre Stevenson is projected to receive the majority of carries, with about 15 touches, while TreVeyon Henderson may see limited usage due to pass-protection concerns against Seattle's complex pressure schemes. The Seahawks allowed the fewest yards per carry among NFL teams last season.
The Patriots' tight end group will feature Hunter Henry, who appeared on 77% of New England's offensive snaps in 2025 and recently signed a two-year, $16 million extension. The article suggests Henry could serve as a fringe TE1/2 option in the matchup.
"We expect a competitive game, but the total points projection of 44.5 appears high," the writer states, indicating a bet on the under for the game’s total.
Overall, the preview highlights the challenges facing Maye and the Patriots against a disciplined Seattle defense and outlines the expected usage of key offensive players.