In the wake of the New England Patriots nightmare season, the anticipated transition from Bill Belichick to inside linebackers coach Jerod Mayo as the head coach might not be as certain as previously thought.
Recent reports suggest that Mayo is facing challenges in making a positive impression within the organization.
In a comprehensive piece by Greg A. Bedard of the Boston Sports Journal, concerns about Mayo’s readiness and his interpersonal dynamics within the Patriots organization have come to light.
Despite long-standing rumors that Mayo would be the natural successor to Belichick, some sources indicate that this may not be the case.
“While nearly everyone I’ve talked to believes Mayo has the stuff to be a head coach, I can’t find many who believe he is ready to assume that role right now. He needs to sit and learn more from a coach who shares a bit more, like a (Mike) Vrabel, and to have more responsibility,” Bedard’s report stated.
Bedard: On Belichick, the Krafts, Jerod Mayo and the future of the Patriots https://t.co/O14KWjAPvV
— Greg A. Bedard (@GregABedard) December 15, 2023
“Of course, if Mayo is passed over, you can almost guarantee he’ll re-enter the HC interview circuit … Multiple team sources indicated Mayo has rubbed at least some people the wrong way in the building since his extension and when he, perhaps, received a strong indication he would be the successor (the idea was more for 2025 or ’26),” Bedard added.
“Maybe this is of no concern to the Krafts, if their mind was already made up. I have no new information that would lead me to believe the Krafts don’t continue to think highly of Mayo. But you would expect them to do their due diligence on whoever they might have in mind — internal or external.”
“Of course, you can’t rule out that some sources are lining up their own boats and perhaps thinking that Mayo may be setting a new course.”
"One day I want to be a head coach. Where that is I don't know, but… I have a lot of love for New England"
Jerod Mayo shares his thoughts on potentially being the #Patriots next head coach 🏈 pic.twitter.com/6aay2wzdYr
— NBC Sports Boston (@NBCSBoston) December 12, 2023
The report also indicates that Mayo’s interactions within the organization may have caused friction, with one source going as far as saying it’s a “longshot” for him to replace Belichick.
Adding to the uncertainty, conflicting reports about Belichick’s future with the Patriots have surfaced. While previous reports indicated that the Patriots had decided to part ways with Belichick, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport contradicted this on Saturday, stating that a final decision on Belichick’s future has not been made.
This picture says otherwise Ian… pic.twitter.com/ndY2bL3Cmt
— Willy Trill (@WillyTrillEra) December 16, 2023
It’s been a total disaster of a season in every single way imaginable for Belichick and the Patriots.
What do you think will end up happening?
Will Belichick be coaching elsewhere next season?
Assuming that’s the case, would Kraft be smart to ditch the Mayo plan and go after an established coach such as Vrabel instead, especially since he has strong New England ties???