The Patriots went from winning eight games in two seasons to playing in their 13th Super Bowl.
The improbable run started with hiring Mike Vrabel, honored Thursday as NFL Coach of the Year.
Next, New England spent $209 million in guaranteed money on free agents — more than any other team in the league last offseason.
“You have to be convicted on the person that you’re bringing in, as a player, and also the impact that they’re going to make in the locker room and around the building and in the community,” Vrabel said. “I appreciate what everybody did.”
“The win on the road at Buffalo was huge for us. I think just finding a way to win that game against a tough opponent, on the road,” quarterback Drake Maye said.
We spoke to Patriots fans — and even Seahawks fans — who said New England’s quarterback should have won the award.
“Throughout camp, we worked on a lot of things, and it was there,” said wide receiver Stefon Diggs. “We were just waiting for it to click, for real.”
“After the Tampa game, that was kind of a big one to go beat another team on the road, a good team that was hot,” cornerback Christian Gonzalez said.
“You were playing this game your whole life. I’m pretty sure you’ve been dreaming about playing on this stage,” said defensive tackle Milton Williams. “We’re here now. What are you going to do now? The opportunity’s right here, right in front of you.”