The New England Patriots wasted no time addressing their disappointing performance in the 2024 NFL season, firing head coach Jerod Mayo mere hours after his first season concluded. A 4-13 record and the inability to fill the enormous shoes left by legendary coach Bill Belichick prompted the team, led by owner Robert Kraft, to make this shocking move. Kraft described the decision to dismiss Mayo as one of the hardest he ever faced, but he knew it had to be done.
This abrupt change signals the Patriots' urgent desire to rebound from their lackluster season, and it begs the immediate question: who will take the reins next? With this being their third head coaching change in just three years, the Patriots are on the hunt for someone who can re-establish the team's status as contenders.
Among the top candidates for the position, Mike Vrabel, the head coach of the Tennessee Titans and former Patriots linebacker, emerges as the frontrunner. Having enjoyed six seasons as head coach of the Titans, where he achieved notable success—including leading the team to the AFC's No. 1 seed in 2021—Vrabel’s tenure gives him significant credibility. His deep-rooted connection to the franchise as part of New England’s dynasty from the early 2000s plays heavily in his favor. He reportedly expressed interest in the role before Mayo’s promotion last year and is likely to be one of the first candidates interviewed.
Another strong contender is Brian Flores, the current defensive coordinator for the Minnesota Vikings. His history with the Patriots as the linebackers coach and later as their defensive assistant makes him familiar with the organization. During his time as head coach of the Miami Dolphins, he showcased his capability to lead, finishing with two winning seasons over three years. Under his guidance, the Vikings' defense ranked among the league's top performers, making Flores another attractive option for the Patriots as they look for someone to revamp their struggling defensive unit.
According to reports, Kraft is also considering Pete Carroll, who led the Patriots from 1997 to 1999 before his successful stint with the Seattle Seahawks. At 73, Carroll is eager to return to coaching after stepping down last year from Seattle. His experience and connection to the Patriots organization may provide the stability and motivation needed for a team currently lacking direction.
Another candidate, Kliff Kingsbury, has drawn attention recently. After his time as head coach of the Arizona Cardinals, where his performance was viewed ambiguously, Kingsbury has been credited for helping develop rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels with the Washington Commanders. Yet, his tenure with the Cardinals, which left some unsatisfied, raises questions about whether he could be the right fit to lead the Patriots.
Beyond these names, there are two rising stars on the coaching circuit worth noting: Ben Johnson and Liam Coen. Johnson, the Detroit Lions' offensive coordinator, has gained recognition for significantly improving his team’s offensive capabilities this season. His play-calling has been instrumental to the Lions securing the No. 1 seed in the NFC playoffs, and his innovative approaches may offer the shakeup the Patriots desperately need.
Coen, the offensive coordinator for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, previously worked under head coach Sean McVay with the Los Angeles Rams. His experience and familiarity with modern offensive schemes may resonate with Kraft, especially with the development of rookie quarterback Drake Maye becoming integral for the Patriots' future. Being from Rhode Island and having attended UMass, Coen possesses local ties, potentially making him even more appealing.
While the Patriots undergo this hiring process, the timeline remains uncertain. Last year, Mayo was introduced as head coach on January 17, shortly after Belichick's exit. With expectations now on choosing the right candidate, the Patriots appear eager to establish their new identity and strive to return to playoff contention.
With multiple candidates and dynamics at play, it is evident the Patriots organization is serious about revitalizing its coaching staff. The days of Belichick’s reign have closed, and as the franchise steps forward, the hope is to find someone who can lead the team back to greatness.