The former Dolphins tight end may not fully grasp the perspective of those who endured the Patriots’ challenging 2022 season, during which they ranked 26th in offensive touchdowns per game and last in red zone touchdown rate (42.2 percent). However, Gesicki’s remarks, shared on the third day of open practices at training camp, carried weight for those who observed the Patriots’ struggles under Matt Patricia and Joe Judge.

Gesicki stated, “There’s definitely been discipline. Not many guys jumping offsides, not many mistakes in terms of alignment or mental errors.”

Accurate alignments? Few mental errors? It’s reassuring to see the 2023 New England Patriots reclaiming their status as a genuine NFL offensive force once more.

Mike Gesicki’s seemingly innocuous remark carries profound implications for the transformation in New England.

Though the former Dolphins tight end may not fully grasp the perspective of those who endured the Patriots’ tumultuous 2022 season—resulting in a dismal 26th ranking in offensive touchdowns per game and the unfortunate distinction of last place in red zone touchdown rate (42.2 percent)—his comment, uttered on the third day of open practices at training camp, resonates deeply with those who bore witness to the Patriots’ arduous journey under the leadership of Matt Patricia and Joe Judge.

Gesicki’s assertion is simple yet powerful: “Discipline has certainly prevailed. There’s been a noticeable absence of offside penalties and a scarcity of errors in alignment or mental lapses.”

Precise alignments? Minimal mental miscues? The revival of the 2023 New England Patriots as a legitimate NFL offensive contender is indeed invigorating.

The term “real” can be quite elusive, so for the context of this narrative, let’s define “real” as synonymous with competence—being deserving of a place on the grand stage of the National Football League. During the Patricia and Judge eras, the Patriots rarely managed to meet even the fundamental prerequisites of a legitimate NFL offensive force.

With the return of offensive coordinator Bill O’Brien for his second tenure in New England, the fundamentals have been restored. The optimism is palpable that the days of self-inflicted setbacks are finally behind them. This shift is an incredibly crucial stride for a unit that once performed so poorly and looked so unconvincing that it prompted open speculation about the suitability of its players for the league and even raised concerns about Bill Belichick’s job security.

O’Brien has always carried the reputation of a coordinator who places immense value on mastering the fundamentals and intricacies of the game. Thus, it’s reasonable to anticipate a noticeable reduction in penalties and mental errors as the 2023 season unfolds.

“The core elements of football. They hold great significance,” remarked Mac Jones after a practice session last Thursday. “While there’s still room for improvement, we’re operating within well-defined rules and standards. As players, it’s our responsibility to meet those standards, and the coaching staff has truly excelled in this regard.

“Bill O’Brien lays out the operational timings and the intentions behind each play—the ‘why’ of it all. He provides a comprehensive framework. Our task is to step onto the field, strive to refine our execution daily, and additionally enhance our pace. After all, the aim is to play with speed while maintaining precision and accuracy.”