Jerod Mayo's first season as Bill Belichick's successor with the New England Patriots has not gone smoothly.
The Patriots did find a franchise quarterback in rookie Drake Maye, who has shown immense promise. However, the team's record is only 3-10, and the roster remains lacking in overall talent. Additionally, Mayo has had his share of struggles as a first-year coach.
All of his has led to speculation that the former Patriots linebacker and longtime Belichick assistant would be one-and-done running the team in Foxboro, but that's not the case, says Dianna Russini of The Athletic.
Over the weekend, Russini reported that New England owner Robert Kraft has told those close to him that he's "committed to giving his first-year head coach time."
"The organization understood from the start that this wouldn’t be seamless," Russini wrote. "Transitioning into a high-pressure role like this, especially following the legendary Belichick, comes with a steep learning curve, and mistakes were expected. The Krafts want to allow Mayo the opportunity to find his voice, establish his footing, and develop into the leader they believe he can be."
Mayo made headlines back in October when he called his team "soft" and has drawn criticism from his former boss Belichick multiple times during the season.
Despite the issues this year, Mayo remains confident in his ability to be a successful NFL head coach.
"100%” Mayo said on WEEI last week.. “I know I’ll be successful, 100%. And look, you’re gonna go through these trying times. Like, that’s what it is. And the mark of a true leader is being able to navigate this and knowing that you’re going the right way.
“And I truly believe that we are going the right way. In the short term it may be disappointing, but in the long term we’re doing it the right way.”
Mayo also said the Patriots will "100% be a better football team next year." It sounds like he will get the opportunity to prove himself right.100% be a better football team next year." It sounds like he will get the opportunity to prove himself right.
