Jerod Mayo Introduced as New Head Coach of the New England Patriots
A New Era Begins in Foxborough
FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (January 18, 2024) – The New England Patriots held a press conference at Gillette Stadium today to introduce Jerod Mayo as their new head coach. Mayo, a former Patriots linebacker and two-time Pro Bowl selection, becomes the 15th head coach in franchise history.
Mayo’s Playing Career and Accolades
Mayo was drafted by the Patriots in the first round (10th overall) of the 2008 NFL Draft out of the University of Tennessee. He spent his entire eight-year NFL career in New England, retiring following the 2015 season. During his playing days, Mayo was known for his exceptional tackling ability and leadership on the field. He appeared in 103 games, registering 905 total tackles, including 68 tackles for loss. Mayo was named team captain for seven consecutive seasons (2009-2015) and was a key member of the Patriots’ Super Bowl XLIX championship team in 2014.
Individually, Mayo earned Pro Bowl honors in 2010 and 2012 after leading the NFL in tackles both seasons. In 2010, he was also named a first-team All-Pro by the Associated Press. Additionally, Mayo won the Associated Press Defensive Rookie of the Year award in 2008, becoming just the second Patriots player to receive the honor.
Mayo’s Transition to Coaching and Success with the Patriots
Following his retirement as a player, Mayo embarked on a successful coaching career. He joined the Patriots’ coaching staff in 2019 as the inside linebackers coach, bringing his extensive knowledge and experience of the game to the next generation of players.
During Mayo’s five seasons as inside linebackers coach, the Patriots’ defense has consistently ranked among the top units in the NFL. In 2019, the Patriots defense finished the season ranked first in the league in total defense, allowing just 275.9 yards per game. That same year, linebacker Dont’a Hightower earned his second career Pro Bowl selection after totaling 71 tackles, 5.5 sacks, and four passes defensed.
In 2022, the Patriots defense continued to excel under Mayo’s guidance. The unit finished the season ranked eighth in yards allowed and tied for second with the San Francisco 49ers with 30 total takeaways. Linebacker Matthew Judon had a breakout season, recording a career-high 15.5 sacks, the third-highest total in team history. Judon earned his fourth consecutive Pro Bowl invitation and was named to the PFWA All-AFC Team.
Mayo’s Vision for the Patriots and His Coaching Philosophy
At the press conference, Mayo expressed his excitement about the opportunity to lead the Patriots as head coach. He emphasized his commitment to building a strong team culture based on discipline, accountability, and hard work. Mayo also spoke about his desire to create an offense that is explosive and efficient, while maintaining the team’s reputation for a stout defense.
Mayo’s coaching philosophy is centered around developing players both on and off the field. He believes in creating a supportive environment where players can thrive and reach their full potential. Mayo also values open communication and collaboration with his coaching staff, recognizing the importance of teamwork in achieving success.
A New Era Begins in New England
With Jerod Mayo at the helm, the New England Patriots enter a new era filled with promise and anticipation. Mayo’s passion for the game, his extensive knowledge of the sport, and his proven ability to develop players make him an ideal choice to lead the franchise into the future. As the Patriots embark on the 2024 season, all eyes will be on Mayo and his team as they strive to build upon the legacy of success established by previous generations of Patriots players and coaches.