FOXBOROUGH - With the NFL trade deadline Tuesday, there’s considerable interest in what the Patriots will do, given their AFC East-leading standing roughly at the midway point of the season.

Few, if any, expected them to be 6-2, riding a five-game win streak at this juncture.

The Patriots need to continue to fortify the roster in key areas, with pass rusher and running back among the top priorities.

Before the frenzy, if there’s indeed a frenzy before the deadline, it’s a good time to take stock of what’s happened thus far.

It’s a good time to give credit where credit is due.

So without further ado, let’s rank who is most responsible for the Patriots’ 6-2 start :

1. Drake Maye

He plays the most important position on the field. No one touches the ball more than the quarterback.

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