When the New England Patriots opted to part ways with quarterback Tom Brady this offseason, many have speculated that their high expectations for the 2020 NFL season went with him. However, it appears there is one former player who does not plan on overlooking what the Patriots organization is capable of.

Former Patriots safety Harrison spent the bulk of his career competing for Patriots, so he understands how the franchise became so successful. According to Karen Guregian of The Boston Herald, Harrison feels that Brady's absence will serve as a motivating factor for them:

“[Belichick] might bring up a couple articles … everybody saying it’s over, Brady this, Brady that … Of course he’ll say something about that. But at the end of the day, whether he makes the point or not, he knows the team will be motivated to prove they can win without Tom.”

Harrison added that players in New England should feel insulted by all the doubt that came with Brady leaving:

“It’s not just talk, not with the Patriots. It’s a chip you carry in the weight room, you carry in the film room, in the dining room, you carry at home watching extra film, it’s a chip that motivates you … It’s motivating for people to say you can’t win without Brady. I know I would be pissed. … So these guys are going to be motivated, pumped up and ready to go …

“You gotta take it personal … You gotta let it motivate you.”

There is certainly plenty of truth to Harrison's comments given the fact that head coach Bill Belichick is still in charge. And it is safe to say that the Patriots have heard all the noise predicting their inevitable downfall. They now have a chance to prove just how much their system works without Brady.

Of course, the onus will fall on quarterback Jarrett Stidham to alleviate the void of Brady's departure by establishing himself as a bonafide starter. If Stidham is unable to live up to expectations, the reins will then be handed over to the more experienced quarterback, Brian Hoyer.

Although none of the aforementioned names carry the same weight as Brady did, this only amplifies the fact that Belichick had established a recipe for success long ago. And as long as Brady's name is on the lips of the Patriots' critics, it should serve as motivation for what will be a very different-looking New England offense.