Former Patriots Coach, Julian Edelman Discuss NFL’s Most Hated Teams

BOSTON — Former New England Patriots coach Matt Patricia and wide receiver Julian Edelman discussed the challenges of being the NFL‘s most hated team during a recent episode of Edelman’s podcast, “Games with Names.” The conversation drew parallels between the Patriots’ dynasty and the current Kansas City Chiefs, highlighting the pressures and strategies of maintaining dominance in the league.

Patricia, who spent 15 non-consecutive years with the Patriots, including a successful stint as defensive coordinator from 2012 to 2016, reflected on the team’s ability to consistently perform at a high level. “You think about the incredible run that we had, like every year,” Patricia said. “Whatever team we played, we were getting their best because that was the benchmark.” During his tenure, Patricia’s defense allowed the fewest points in the NFL in 2016, contributing to two Super Bowl victories.

Edelman, a key player in the Patriots’ success, emphasized the financial and career incentives for opponents facing a top-tier team. “Everyone says, ‘Oh, they only won by two points,'” Edelman said of the Chiefs. “They don’t realize that every team and every coach that’s coaching against them, they’re sitting and they say, ‘That’s America’s most wanted. If we beat them, we’re going to get paid more. We’re going to get a new job.’ Every single team.”

Patricia also shared insights into the Patriots’ strategy of maintaining an air of mystery to gain a psychological edge. “We were always kind of behind the curtain,” he said. “Like, you know, we had that mystery about us, right? Which we loved because we didn’t talk outside the building. Like everything was in house. And we loved it because actually it was an advantage… we had them beat before they walked on the field.”

The former coach recounted a conversation with NASCAR driver Kyle Busch, who offered a unique perspective on being disliked. “He just looks at me. He goes, ‘I love the boos.’ He goes, ‘It means you’re relevant,'” Patricia said. “And I was like, ‘I freaking like that.’ It’s true. I like that a lot. Love that mentality. It was awesome.”

The podcast episode also touched on the Patriots’ 2011 AFC Championship win over the Baltimore Ravens, a game that remains a highlight of the team’s storied history. The nearly three-hour conversation provided fans with a behind-the-scenes look at the mindset and strategies that fueled one of the NFL’s most successful dynasties.