Patriots Open 2026 Season With Super Bowl Rematch

Drake Maye is already focused on redemption heading into the 2026 NFL season.

The New England Patriots will open the new campaign against the reigning Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks in the league’s highly anticipated Kickoff Game.

The matchup marks the first meeting between the two teams since Seattle defeated New England in the Super Bowl, a loss that still motivates Maye during the offseason.

Drake Maye Using Super Bowl Loss as Motivation

Maye admitted the defeat left “a bad taste” in the Patriots’ locker room and believes the rematch gives the team extra motivation during training camp.

“I think it’s a chance for us to get some extra motivation during training camp,” Maye told reporters Wednesday. “A chance to get an opponent that left a bad taste in our mouth.”

The third-year quarterback added that opening the season against Seattle will push the Patriots to prepare at a higher level throughout camp.

Tough Road Challenge Awaits New England

The Patriots will travel to Seattle for the season opener, where the Seahawks will celebrate their championship banner in front of one of the loudest home crowds in football.

“We’ve got to bring it week one on the road in a tough environment,” Maye said. “They’re going to be hanging their banner.”

After becoming an NFL MVP finalist in 2025, Maye is expected to lead New England back into championship contention. A Week 1 win over Seattle would immediately send a strong message to the rest of the NFL and provide the Patriots with an early-season statement victory.