6 Patriots on the Chopping Block After Week 7 Loss

3. DeMarcus Covington

Heading into this season, most anticipated that the Patriots defense would be one of the team's calling cards. New England's 2023 defense was a bright spot on a 4-13 team, and with many young pieces returning from that group, the defense was expected to be the unit of strength.

Yes, New England has suffered a litany of injuries to key defensive players such as Christian Barmore and Ja'Whaun Bentley – and have been playing without Jabrill Peppers. Add in an August trade of Matthew Judon, this unit is missing key pieces from those preseason projections.

Subsequently, Mayo was asked postgame if he would entertain a change of defensive play callers. The head coach didn't appear to be seriously considering the option (rather taking the opportunity to throw his players under the bus once again), but he should be. Covington is a first-time play caller and although the Patriots defensive numbers aren't awful at first glance, context is important. New England's time of possession has largely limited the scoreboard damage, but the Patriots are allowing the 10th-most yards allowed per play in the league.

After a 1-6 start, no one on New England's coaching staff should be immune to criticism. With the lack of offensive firepower, the onus on the defense is even greater. The Patriots need more from their defense or they will certainly be picking first overall next April.