Here's a breakdown of the AFC East heading into the 2025-2026 NFL season:

1. Coaches and Coordinators

  • Buffalo Bills: Sean McDermott remains the head coach.

  • Miami Dolphins: Mike McDaniel is still the head coach.

  • New England Patriots: Mike Vrabel takes over as head coach. Josh McDaniels is the offensive coordinator, with assistants including Tony Dews (running backs), Todd Downing (wide receivers), and Doug Marrone (offensive line).

  • New York Jets: Aaron Glenn is the new head coach.

2. Strength of Offense and Defense

  • Buffalo Bills: The Bills' defense added pieces like Joey Bosa, Maxwell Hairston and T.J. Sanders. In 2024, the Bills' offense set a franchise record with 525 points scored.

  • Miami Dolphins: The Dolphins' offense has speed with Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle and DeVon Achane. The defense was good in 2024, finishing fourth in yards allowed.

  • New England Patriots: The Patriots' defense is considered stout. The team finished second to last in total offense in 2024.

  • New York Jets: The Jets' defense was good in 2024, finishing third in the NFL in yards allowed.

3. Offensive Line

  • Buffalo Bills: The Bills have continuity, returning all five starters from last season. They are considered to have the best offensive line in the AFC East.

  • Miami Dolphins: The Dolphins' offensive line has been average at best.

  • New England Patriots: The Patriots revamped their offensive line, adding Garrett Bradbury, Morgan Moses, and Will Campbell.

  • New York Jets: The Jets have invested in their offensive line through the draft, selecting Olu Fashanu and Armand Membou in recent years.

4. New Additions to Teams

  • Buffalo Bills: Added Joey Bosa, Josh Palmer, Larry Ogunjobi and Tre'Davious White. Drafted Maxwell Hairston.

  • Miami Dolphins: Added James Daniels, Zach Wilson, Willie Gay Jr., Nick Westbrook-Ikhine and Alexander Mattison. Drafted Kenneth Grant and Jonah Savaiinaea. 

  • New England Patriots: Added Stefon Diggs. Drafted Will Campbell and TreVeyon Henderson. Mike Vrabel is the new head coach.

  • New York Jets: Added Justin Fields and Josh Reynolds. Drafted Armand Membou. Aaron Glenn is the new head coach. 

5. What Oddsmakers Predict

Odds to Win the Division 

Buffalo -325

New England +400

Miami +575

NY Jets +2000

  • AFC East Winner: The Buffalo Bills are the heavy favorites to win the AFC East.

  • Playoff Predictions:

  • The Bills are expected to make the playoffs and potentially make a Super Bowl run.

  • The Patriots are given a chance to compete for a wild card spot.

  • Team Records:

  • Bills are predicted to have a strong record, potentially 12-5 or 15-2.

  • Patriots are predicted to have a record around 8-9 or potentially 11-6.

  • Dolphins are predicted to have a record around 7-10.

  • Jets are predicted to struggle, potentially with a record around 3-14 or 5-12.

6. Hidden Info or Gems

  • Buffalo Bills: Landon Jackson (Edge).

  • Miami Dolphins: Jason Marshall Jr. (CB).

  • New England Patriots: Joshua Farmer (DT).

  • New York Jets: Isaiah Davis (RB).

7. Specific obstacles each team in the AFC East must overcome for the 2025-2026 season:

Buffalo Bills

  • Playoff Pressure: The Bills face high expectations after consistent playoff appearances. They must manage the pressure to perform in crucial games.
  • Injury Concerns: Key players, including Josh Allen, have faced injuries in the past, and maintaining health is crucial for a deep playoff run.
  • Defensive Adjustments: With new additions, the defense must quickly gel to maintain their top-tier status.

Miami Dolphins

  • Consistency on Offense: While their skill positions are strong, the offensive line must improve to provide adequate protection for Tua Tagovailoa.
  • Defensive Depth: The Dolphins need to improve their depth on defense, especially if injuries occur to key players.
  • Coaching Adaptability: Mike McDaniel must demonstrate adaptability in his game plans to fully utilize the talent on the roster.

New England Patriots

  • Offensive Revamp: Transitioning to a new offensive scheme under Mike Vrabel and Josh McDaniels requires time for players to adjust.
  • Quarterback Stability: With new additions, the Patriots need to find a reliable starting quarterback to lead the offense effectively.
  • Defensive Aging: Some defensive players are aging, and the team must integrate younger talent to maintain competitiveness.

New York Jets

  • Quarterback Performance: Justin Fields must adapt to the Jets’ system and demonstrate he can lead the team effectively.
  • Inconsistent Playmaking: The Jets need to establish a reliable playmaking identity on both sides of the ball.
  • Coaching Transition: Aaron Glenn’s first year as head coach will require smooth transitions and effective communication with players to create a cohesive unit.

Addressing these obstacles will be crucial for each team’s success in the upcoming season.