For the first time since 2019, the New England Patriots won the AFC East division with Sunday's win over the New York Jets and the Buffalo Bills' loss in Week 17.

The AFC East is set to have a new look in terms of head coaches once the 2026 NFL season rolls around. It was not a "Black Monday" move when most firings happen, but earlier this week the Miami Dolphins (7-10) have decided to dismiss head coach Mike McDaniel after four seasons according to Dolphins Wire.

The Patriots are guaranteed no lower than the No. 3 overall seed in the playoffs. New England is still in contention for the AFC’s No. 1 overall seed and the first-round bye that goes with it, but they need some help.

After a thrilling victory over the Baltimore Ravens last week, the Patriots blew out the New York Jets in Week 17, improving their record to 13-3. With one week left in the regular season, the Patriots control much of their own destiny for playoff positioning.

A Bills division rival made a huge move on Thursday that could shake up Buffalo's future over the next few years.

Jacksonville enters this one at 13–4, the AFC South champion, and the conference’s No. 3 seed, while Buffalo finished the season 12–5, failed to win the AFC East for the fir

New York has gone through many coaches since 2018. Todd Bowles coached the team until 2018 before he was fired for Adam Gase who only lasted two seasons. Robert Saleh was thought to be a coach for the future but he was fired last season where now Aaron Glenn has taken over the position.

The Patriots' defense stood tall in both wins, while Drake Maye and Tom Brady both made crucial passes to their tight ends.