Did we write the New England Patriots off too soon?
Many predicted New England would hover around .500 (or worse) this season after Tom Brady's departure. But while the Patriots are 2-2, they've held their own against two of the NFL's best teams in the Seattle Seahawks and Kansas City Chiefs and played well in wins over the Miami Dolphins and Las Vegas Raiders.
Former Patriots linebacker Ted Johnson believes the team's body of work through four games should make head coach Bill Belichick very, very excited.
Stay in the game with the latest updates on your beloved Boston sports teams! Sign up here for our All Access Daily newsletter.
Perry: Bell joining Chiefs is second-best outcome for Pats
"Bill Belichick has got to be absolutely giddy from what he's seen so far in this season," Johnson said Thursday night on NBC Sports Boston, as seen in the video player above. "Cam Newton is fully invested. ... They're playing good, sound, fundamental, mistake-free football."
The Patriots had an unexpected bye in Week 5 as they dealt with positive COVID-19 tests in their organization. That just means they're flying further under the radar, though.
Johnson also pointed out the 2014 Patriots started 2-2 before going on to win the Super Bowl -- and that Belichick is more motivated than ever to repeat history.
"Bill Belichick, I'm telling you, is so excited about the potential of stealing a Super Bowl this year from what he's seen in the first four weeks of the season," Johnson said. "No doubt in my mind."
Check out Johnson's full comments in the video player above.