If there’s an unsung reason the New England Patriots have entered their bye week with the NFL's best record following back-to-back 4-13 seasons, it may be as simple as them enjoying being around one another.

While teams around the league dole out platitudes about brotherhood, these Patriots (11-2) are remarkably close, on and off the field.

Stream NBC10 Boston news for free, 24/7, wherever you are. WATCH HERE

Whether it’s been quarterback Drake Maye and rookie left tackle Will Campbell sitting courtside at a Celtics game or having dinner together in Boston’s North End, the weekly dinners shared by the offensive line, or the ways coach Mike Vrabel has given attention to individual players, the bonds of this roster are noticeable.

“This is probably the tightest group of guys I

See Full Page