FOXBOROUGH, Mass. — Jerod Mayo has been chosen as the next head coach of the New England Patriots, succeeding the legendary coach Bill Belichick, sources have confirmed to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The decision comes swiftly after Belichick’s departure, as the Patriots move to establish a new era in the franchise’s history.
At the age of 37, Mayo will become the youngest coach in the NFL, taking over the title previously held by Sean McVay of the Los Angeles Rams. Mayo, a former linebacker for the Patriots from 2008 to 2015, joined Belichick’s coaching staff in 2019 as the linebackers coach.
The Patriots were able to expedite Mayo’s hiring process due to a succession plan established in his contract extension signed last offseason. This approach is reminiscent of what the Baltimore Ravens did when Eric DeCosta succeeded Ozzie Newsome as the team’s general manager in 2019.
Mayo’s appointment as the Patriots’ head coach is historic, as he becomes the franchise’s first Black head coach. His selection has garnered support from players in the locker room, particularly on defense. One defender expressed hope that Mayo would land the role, stating, “He deserves it.”
Throughout his playing career, Mayo demonstrated leadership, becoming team captain in his second season. He was highly regarded by his teammates and was often referred to as “Bill Jr.” due to his dedication and resemblance to Belichick himself. Mayo’s coaching style emphasizes building relationships with players, coaching out of love while also being tough when necessary.
As a player, Mayo appeared in 103 games for the Patriots, recording 905 tackles. He led the team in tackles for five consecutive seasons and was awarded the Associated Press Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2008. Mayo’s retirement in 2015 led him to work in finance for Optum, a health care services provider, further enhancing his understanding of leadership and preparation for his eventual role as a head coach.
The departure of Belichick, who spent 24 seasons as the Patriots’ coach and led the team to six Super Bowl titles, marks a significant shift for the franchise. Belichick’s decision to leave the team followed meetings with Patriots owner Robert Kraft, with the coach expressing a desire to “move on.”
Mayo’s appointment as the Patriots’ head coach represents a new chapter in the team’s history, bringing both excitement and promise. With his youth, experience as a former player, and dedication to building relationships, Mayo is poised to lead the Patriots into the future.
In conclusion, Jerod Mayo has been chosen as the next head coach of the New England Patriots, becoming the franchise’s first Black head coach. Mayo, who previously served as a linebacker for the team, joined Bill Belichick’s coaching staff in 2019. His appointment comes after Belichick’s departure following 24 seasons as the Patriots’ coach. Mayo’s focus on building relationships and his experience as both a player and a coach make him an exciting choice for the Patriots.