Robert Kraft probably noticed this number.
The Patriots garnered a 23.9 TV rating for their season-opening loss against the Dolphins Sunday, according to WEEI’s Chris Curtis. Their lifeless 20-7 defeat peaked with a 25.5 rating at 3:00 p.m.
That figure is significantly down from the Patriots’ opener against the Dolphins last season, which drew a 33.1 rating in Boston. Granted, that game kicked off at 4:25 p.m., but the time difference isn’t enough to explain the steep decline.
Overall, the Patriots averaged a 31.5 local TV rating last season. That means they’re down 25 percent.
Obviously, a one-week rating drop doesn’t constitute a trend, and viewership for their game against the Steelers should rebound a little bit. But it’s apparent Patriots fans aren’t as excited about their team this season.
While all NFL owners are attune to TV ratings, Kraft is probably more aware than most, given his longstanding tenure as chair of the league’s broadcast committee.
For the last 23 years, Kraft has rightfully taken a hands-off approach to the Patriots’ football operations, granting Bill Belichick complete autonomy. But maybe sagging ratings will propel Kraft to become a little more involved. NBC Sports Boston’s Tom Curran told “Gresh & Keefe” Tuesday that Kraft noticed Kendrick Bourne’s benching Sunday.
“I’d be surprised if he stays down for much longer,” said Curran.
For what it’s worth, the Patriots averaged a 26.3 local TV rating during their 2020 campaign, in which they limped to a 7-9 finish. They responded by shelling out a record number of guaranteed cash in free agency and drafting Mac Jones with the No. 15 overall pick.
If this slide continues, it could result in similarly aggressive moves.
