The rookie, who turned 22 in August and is the youngest starting quarterback in the NFL, has been working to find a balance in earning his teammates' respect while not overstepping his bounds.

While there’s still plenty to improve on, Mayo was encouraged by what he saw from all three units against the Bears. During his Zoom call with the media Monday, the Patriots coach suggested the team now has a blueprint going forward that gives them the best chance to win games.

New England controlled the line of scrimmage in a win over Chicago on Sunday, a formula similar to its Week 1 victory against Cinncinati.