The New England Patriots are in a favorable position heading into their final game of the regular season.
After the New York Giants defeated the Indianapolis Colts and the Patriots lost to the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 17, New England now holds the top spot for the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. If they lose to the Buffalo Bills, they will secure that position.
Adding to Patriots fans’ hopes, Bills head coach Sean McDermott announced on Monday that quarterback Josh Allen will start the game, even though Buffalo has already clinched the No. 2 seed in the AFC. McDermott explained that Allen’s consecutive start streak is important to him, saying, “He wants to be out there with his teammates. He’ll play for a very short time before being taken out.”
Allen has started 104 consecutive games, and McDermott emphasized how meaningful the streak is to him. “It’s one of the top things on his mind,” McDermott said, adding that Allen’s commitment and achievements speak volumes about his dedication.
For the Bills, some other starters will also play, along with younger players the team wants to evaluate.
Meanwhile, Patriots head coach Jerod Mayo is considering sitting quarterback Drake Maye for the final game. Maye, who suffered a concussion earlier in the season and briefly left the Chargers game after taking another hit to the head, might be rested to avoid unnecessary risk in a game that has no playoff implications. Rookie Joe Milton could step in for his first action since the preseason.
Regardless of these decisions, the Bills playing their starters reduces the Patriots’ chances of winning, making it increasingly likely that they will secure the No. 1 draft pick.
