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5 Patriots Still on Thin Ice After Surviving the Trade Deadline

Even though the NFL trade deadline has come and gone, that doesn't mean these five New England Patriots are in the clear.

By Devon Platana

Mac Jones is one of five Patriots who are still on thin ice after surviving Tuesday's NFL trade deadline.
Mac Jones is one of five Patriots who are still on thin ice after surviving Tuesday's NFL trade deadline. / Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports
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3. Atonio Mafi

The Patriots' offensive line has disappointed throughout the season and Atonio Mafi has been one of the bigger culprits.

The 2023 fifth-rounder has given up four sacks while taking as many penalties across 319 offensive snaps — good for a putrid 29.3 overall grade on Pro Football Focus. He finished with a grade of 38.6 or worse in each of the last four games, showing no signs of a turnaround soon.

With this being his first year as a pro, there's time for Mafi to turn things around. At least, in theory. But how much more of the offensive guard's underwhelming play can head coach Bill Belichick take?

After all, Mafi shares the team lead with Vederian Lowe when it comes to sacks allowed while also ranking second when it comes to pressures (21) and QB hurries (16). Not only does he struggle to protect his quarterback, but Mafi's team-low 30.5 run block grade shows he's detrimental to the ground game, too.

With better offensive line play needed to end the 2023 season on a high note, Mafi must figure out how to turn things around before losing his starting job.

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