The New England Patriots’ decision to move on from one of the most accomplished head coaches in NFL history was met with some surprise.
That’s particularly true because they replaced Bill Belichick with a first-time head coach.
Jerod Mayo was reportedly owner Robert Kraft’s first choice to take the reins from Belichick once he was ready, and though he may have been put into the job a little sooner than expected, Kraft didn’t waver in his decision.
Notably, not even this season’s struggles have been enough to make the owner change his mind about Mayo.
“While there hasn’t been a public vote of confidence from the Kraft family, Patriots leadership is standing by head coach Jerod Mayo. … The organization understood from the start that this wouldn’t be seamless,” insider Dianna Russini wrote, via The Athletic NFL.
While there hasn’t been a public vote of confidence from the Kraft family, Patriots leadership is standing by head coach Jerod Mayo.
The organization understood from the start that this wouldn’t be seamless.
More on what @DMRussini is hearing ⤵️https://t.co/RXuBAqTCo3 pic.twitter.com/lHHstRLPQn
— The Athletic NFL (@TheAthleticNFL) December 14, 2024
According to the report, Kraft knew the road would be bumpy, so he’s still committed to Mayo as his coach for the future.
There were rumors about Mayo potentially coaching for his job in the final month of the season, adding that he could be fired if the team wasn’t competitive down the stretch.
Granted, he hasn’t had much talent to work with, and the Patriots will need to address several issues before being able to contend for a playoff spot.
However, some have been less than impressed with Mayo’s decision-making and clock management.
The Patriots may have their quarterback of the future in Drake Maye.
Whether Mayo will be there to coach him for the long run remains to be seen, but it seems like he’s safe for now.
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