Could the Patriots play in London in 2021?

The NFL is set to release the 2021 schedule next month, but we’ve already known the Patriots’ upcoming opponents since the end of the season. With the 17th game being officially implemented earlier this week, that list is now fully set.

However, an update from the league late Thursday night could have implications on when – and more importantly where – the Patriots play one of their games next season. As first reported by ESPN’ Field Yates, the Atlanta Falcons are planning to play one of their home games in London this year. As his colleague Mike Reiss pointed out soon after, the Patriots are slated to play the Falcons on the road this season.

If the Patriots were to travel to the UK this year, it would be their first international game since 2017, and their first in London 2012. They’re 3-0 outside of the US, with wins over the Raiders (2017, Mexico City), Rams (2012, London), and Buccaneers (2009, London).

What does the rest of the Patriots’ 2021 slate look like beyond the Falcons? Here’s a quick rundown of the 14 opponents they’ll face over 17 games.

• vs/@ Buffalo Bills

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  After the last two decades, the roles are reversed. It will be the defending AFC East champion Bills looking to fend off the upstart Patriots in 2021. The game in Buffalo is a good candidate for the Sunday or Monday night openers.

• vs/@ Miami Dolphins

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  For the second straight season, a number of players flipped between the Patriots and Dolphins during free agency. These games got chippy last year, and we could see more of that in 2021.

• vs/@ New York Jets

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  Just how improved will the Jets be with a new quarterback under center? The timing of these games is key if New York decides to start Zach Wilson off on the bench, similar to the Miami situation with Tua Tagovailoa last year.
• vs. Tennessee Titans

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  The Patriots made a concerted effort this offseason to improve their run defense. That strategy will be put to the test when Derrick Henry and the Titans come to town.

• @ Indianapolis Colts

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  Coming off of just their second playoff appearance since 2015, the Colts made a major investment, trading for Carson Wentz. This will be the Patriots' first trip to Indy since 2015.

• @ Houston Texans

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  The Patriots will head to Houston for the third straight season. Now under Nick Caserio, the Texans' roster is in flux, meaning the Patriots should have a good chance to get revenge for last year's loss.
• vs. Jacksonville Jaguars

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  Facing the first overall pick is notable of course, but there's another interesting element to this game. 2021 is the 25th anniversary of the 1996 Patriots team that went to the Super Bowl, after beating the Jaguars in the AFC Championship. There's been rumors in recent years the Patriots might bring back the 'Flying Elvis' shoulder jerseys of that era as throwbacks. If they really want to this would be the perfect opportunity to do so.

• vs. Cleveland Browns

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  The Browns are coming off a surprisingly deep playoff run. This game will be a good measuring stick for the Patriots, especially if it's early in the schedule.

• @ Los Angeles Chargers

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  The Patriots dominated the Chargers last year to the tune of 45-0. With Justin Herbert having a full year of experience under his belt and a new coach in place, this time around might not be as easy.
• vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

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  This one needs no explanation.

• vs. New Orleans Saints

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  Like the Patriots, the Saints also seem to be resetting their QB position on the fly. Will it be Taysom Hill or Jameis Winston under center when they come to Gillette this year? Or somebody else?

• @ Atlanta Falcons

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  Another 28-3 rematch. It will be the second meeting between the teams since that game, with the Patriots winning a 2017 meeting in Foxborough. We'll have to wait and see if this one is in Atlanta, or London.
• @ Carolina Panthers

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  There's been plenty of talk about Tom Brady returning to Foxborough, but he's not the only former-franchise QB heading back to his old stomping grounds. The Patriots will play in Carolina this year, facing the team that took Cam Newton No. 1 overall in 2011. Will he be starting the game for New England?

• vs. Dallas Cowboys

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  Added as the 17th opponent, the Cowboys will visit Foxborough this season. The Patriots have won six straight against Dallas dating back to 1999, after losing the first seven meetings of the all-time series.

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Alex Barth is a writer and digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Thoughts? Comments? Questions? Looking for a podcast guest? Let him know on Twitter @RealAlexBarth or via email at abarth@985TheSportsHub.com.