Now that July has arrived, the NFL’s 2025 season is on the horizon. This period marks an opportune time to review the offseason activities of teams that will face the Carolina Panthers this year, starting with the New England Patriots.
The Panthers will meet the Patriots in Week 4 at New England on September 28 at 1 p.m. Historically, the Panthers lead their all-time series against the Patriots 4-3. The last regular-season encounter between these teams was in 2021 when New England emerged victorious with a score of 24-6.
The Patriots ended their previous season with a record of 4-13, ranking 31st in total offense and 22nd in total defense. Key personnel changes have been made during the offseason. In free agency, they added wide receiver Stefon Diggs, defensive tackle Milton Williams, cornerback Carlton Davis, linebacker Harold Landry, wide receiver Mack Hollins, and center Garrett Bradbury. They also bolstered their roster through the draft by selecting offensive tackle Will Campbell and running back TreVeyon Henderson among others.
Significant changes followed a challenging first season without Bill Belichick as head coach. The team began and ended with identical records of one win and six losses each segment. Owner Robert Kraft addressed offensive shortcomings by acquiring new talent like Stefon Diggs to enhance firepower alongside Mack Hollins.
Following Jerod Mayo’s dismissal as head coach after just one season, Mike Vrabel was appointed to lead the team. Vrabel previously coached the Tennessee Titans from 2018 to 2023 and made three playoff appearances during his tenure there. Josh McDaniels returns for his third stint as offensive coordinator after taking a break in 2024.
As they enter this new chapter under Vrabel’s leadership without any players holding Super Bowl rings since before Belichick’s era began over two decades ago; integrating their revamped lineup including second-year quarterback Drake Maye will be crucial for determining how well prepared they are when facing off against Carolina come Week Four.
