After back-to-back 4-13 seasons, the Patriots have flipped the script in 2026-and fast. They’re heading into the AFC Divisional Round as the No. 2 seed, and whether you’re ready to believe it or not, New England is back in the mix.
Of course, with that return to relevance comes the familiar chorus of criticism. Some are pointing to a supposedly soft schedule.
Others are questioning whether certain young players, like rookie quarterback Drake Maye, are truly ready for primetime. And after their latest win over the Chargers, that outside chatter only got louder-especially surrounding a few rookies who had tougher outings, including left tackle Will Campbell.
But here’s the thing: Campbell’s not listening. And based on how this team has carried itself all season, he’s not alone.
Will Campbell Isn’t Here for the Noise
Let’s talk about Campbell for a moment. He had a rough stretch against the Chargers, no doubt.
He gave up a few pressures, and there were a couple plays he’d like back. But he was also lined up against one of the league’s most disruptive defensive fronts-and for a rookie tackle in the postseason, he held his own more often than not.
When asked about the criticism flying around social media, Campbell didn’t sugarcoat his response.
“I don’t give a shit what anyone says, to be honest with you,” he said. “It’s easy to type behind a Twitter account that is fake… The Chargers, obviously I didn’t pitch a shutout.
There’s 2 or 3 plays I wish I could have back. But that’s football.”
That’s the kind of mindset you want from a young lineman in January-accountability without apology. He knows where he needs to improve, but he’s not letting the noise dictate his confidence. And that’s exactly the kind of edge this Patriots team is going to need as they prepare for Houston.
A Familiar Mentality, A New-Look Team
Let’s be clear: this isn’t the Patriots team that dominated the 2000s and 2010s. The names are different.
The faces are younger. But the mentality?
That part hasn’t changed.
This group may not have the rings or the dynasty-era resumes, but they’ve clearly embraced the same “ignore the noise” philosophy that defined so many of those earlier teams. And they’ve needed it. Because despite their turnaround this season, there’s been little love coming from outside Foxborough.
The skepticism is still there. The resentment from the dynasty years hasn’t faded. And even though there’s not a single player on this roster who was around for the Brady-Belichick heyday, the Patriots are still wearing the target that era left behind.
That’s fine by them.
Blocking Out the Doubt
Campbell’s response wasn’t just a soundbite-it was a snapshot of this team’s mindset. They’re not asking for praise.
They’re not looking for validation. They’re focused on the task at hand: winning playoff games.
And while the Texans present a serious challenge, the Patriots aren’t heading into the Divisional Round looking for respect. They’re bringing the same chip-on-the-shoulder energy that’s fueled their resurgence all year.
So yes, there are still questions-about the rookies, about the schedule, about whether this team is for real. But inside that locker room, the answers are already clear.
They believe in what they’re building. They’re not interested in outside opinions.
And if they keep winning, the rest of the league won’t have a choice but to pay attention.
For now, though, the Patriots are doing what they’ve always done best: tuning out the noise and getting back to work.