The excitement around Jerod Mayo's promotion to become the Patriots' next head coach was apparent from the top of the organization down all offseason, with several players publicly sharing their appreciation for him. Some of that seemed to unravel throughout the regular season, which seemed to be chalked up to the struggles of a losing team, but there were rumors it went beyond that.
From the entire wide receiver room taking to social media to share their frustrations to allegations of a mutiny beginning in the locker room, it was starting to seem like Mayo was already losing his team in year one.
But it's apparent things have changed in recent weeks. Whether due to the Patriots winning a few games or meaningful conversations taking place behind closed doors to rally the team, something has clearly made a difference in boosting morale.
It couldn't come at a better time for Mayo, who started to be the subject of firing rumors because the team seemed to be falling apart. Now that things have shifted, the latest rumors suggest he won't be going anywhere anytime soon, including next season.
NFL insider shares the latest update regarding Jerod Mayo's status as the Patriots head coach
Rumors swirled over the past month, claiming Mayo was in the hot seat and that even Robert Kraft questioned his decision to make him the head coach this year. It was the last thing the team needed as they dealt with the hardships of a losing season, but winning has apparently changed the narrative behind the scenes.
According to Sports Illustrated's Albert Breer, the Krafts are "deeply invested" in Mayo and knew there would be hardships in his first year as the head coach, especially since he was put into that position a year earlier than anticipated, so they plan to keep him in the role for 2025 to see how he progresses in year two.
“My understanding is they remain solidly behind Jerod Mayo. They have sympathy for some of the things that he’s had to deal with this year, some of the noise on the outside. Obviously, the roster is what it is. But they have done some research over the last few weeks on how to handle a young quarterback. Obviously, they failed with Mac Jones from 2021 through 2023. …So that, I think, is the next piece of it.
I think Jerod Mayo is on solid ground to be the head coach in 2025 and from there, you have to continue to evolve on your quarterback plan.”
Seeing Drake Maye flourish during his rookie season through just four games so far has likely contributed to the change of heart from the organization. That is a result of the new regime's stellar scouting process, which led to Maye being selected as their first-round pick and the coaching staff around him to aid in his development.
Because Mayo is the one who brought this staff in, that makes him look good as well.
The progression of Maye is the most important thing right now, especially since the 2024 season wasn't expected to be anything but a rebuilding year. Now, they can build a roster around their quarterback and strengthen their defense to become a contender as soon as next year while maintaining continuity on the coaching staff with Mayo still on the sideline.