The New England Patriots have already clinched the AFC East, but Mike Vrabel is not treating the regular-season finale like a preseason game. Instead, the head coach is planning to play all non-injured starters, a decision that underscores his commitment to a strong finish.
Mike Vrabel Says Patriots Will Play Starters as AFC’s Top Spot Still Up for Grabs
Vrabel told reporters the Patriots expect all healthy players to suit up Sunday against the Miami Dolphins, keeping New England’s push for the AFC No. 1 seed alive entering Week 18.
While a top seed remains a long shot, since New England needs help from the Los Angeles Chargers against the Denver Broncos and multiple reports suggest Los Angeles is expected to rest starters, the Patriots can only control one outcome: beating their opponent, the Dolphins.
There is a good reason the Patriots are approaching Sunday with this mindset. Even if the No. 1 seed path is narrow, a win keeps New England positioned for as much home-field advantage as possible. Vrabel also has a roster that has dealt with late-season injuries, making real game reps valuable for timing and cohesion before the playoffs.
New England will have two major pieces available that were missing during the stretch run, as the Patriots activated left tackle Will Campbell and defensive tackle Milton Williams from injured reserve ahead of the finale.
Campbell’s return stabilizes the edge of the offensive line, while Williams gives the defensive front another interior presence, helping New England tighten up details before January football.
The Injury List Still Shapes the Plan
Even with those activations, the Patriots are not at full strength. Guard Jared Wilson and defenders Khyiris Tonga, Harold Landry III, and Robert Spillane have been ruled out, which could influence snap counts by position group, especially if the game script swings early.
