New England Patriots prepared to lose both coordinators after season
By Brian Hines
The New England Patriots look like they are going to lose both coordinators this offseason to head coaching jobs.
History could be on the verge of repeating itself for the New England Patriots. After winning their third Super Bowl in four years, the Patriots lost both of their coordinators to head coaching jobs in 2005.
Now in 2018, the Patriots are a win away from yet another Super Bowl appearance, while the team’s coordinators are ready to pursue head coaching jobs elsewhere after the season.
Defensive coordinator, Matt Patricia, was first rumored to be leaving. Patricia was viewed as the favorite for the Detroit Lions and New York Giants head coaching position but is expected to take the Lions job.
The 43-year old Patricia will team up with former Patriot executive Bob Quinn in Detroit, who is the Lions’ general manager. Patricia spent fourteen years on the Patriots staff, six coming as the team’s defensive coordinator.
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Secondly, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the Indianapolis Colts and Patriots offensive coordinator, Josh McDaniels, have “agreed in principle” to become their next head coach.
McDaniels has spent two separate stints in New England, piling up fourteen total years. The 2017 season was his ninth as the team’s offensive coordinator. McDaniels was the head coach for the Denver Broncos from 2009 through midway to the 2010 season.
Even with the Tennessee Titans job opening, McDaniels picked Indianapolis – potentially because of quarterback Andrew Luck and general manager Chris Ballard.
Neither the Lions or Colts can officially announce their new head coaches until after the Patriots’ season ends.
Looking ahead to 2018, the Patriots play both the Colts, at home, and the Lions, on the road.
When both coordinators officially depart after this season, potential replacements will most likely come from coaches already on the staff.
Wide receiver coach, Chad O’Shea, would be expected to take over as the offensive coordinator. Former Alabama offensive coordinator and Patriots tight end coach Brian Daboll, who was a potential suitor, signed with the Buffalo Bills.
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As for replacing Patricia, all eyes point to linebackers coach Brian Flores. However, Flores’ name is still being considered for the Arizona Cardinals head coaching vacancy. If Flores does depart, Ohio State defensive coordinator, Greg Schiano, would appear to be the leading candidate.