By Steve Atkinson
Jerod Mayo is expected to be the Patriots’ head coach in 2025. This season serves as a trial run for him and Eliot Wolf, who have both been undermined by Bill Belichick for years. Belichick has consistently promoted his children and friends to coaching and coordinator positions, leaving Mayo, Wolf, and DeMarcus Covington unprepared for their roles. It’s evident that the Krafts hold Belichick accountable for the team’s current struggles and the staff’s lack of readiness.
Jerod Mayo and the Staff Are On A Trial Year
The Patriots’ defense has declined compared to last year, largely due to DeMarcus Covington not being adequately prepared for the job. Meanwhile, the offense is still a work in progress, although they have a promising quarterback in Drake Maye.
As the Patriots come off their bye week, they will focus on finishing the final month of the season strong in hopes of a better outcome in 2025. Mayo is determined to get the team ready for these last games of the season. The Patriots have one fewer win than last year, but Maye has shown that he is capable of being the real deal.
Drake Maye is expected to make a significant leap from his first year to his second. This improvement is crucial for keeping coach Mayo in his position. It will be up to Eliot Wolf to surround Maye with the right players. The Kraft family believes that Wolf, Mayo, and Maye will all make notable progress in their second year.
Expect Jerod Mayo and Drake Maye to Have Year 2 Jumps
There have been rumors that Mayo’s coaching staff could change. Will Alex Van Pelt return? He hasn’t performed poorly, but one has to wonder if that’s just because Drake is such a talented player. It seems that Van Pelt will likely be back, as he is a genuine offensive coach, unlike some defensive coordinators who attempt to shift to offensive roles.
Consider what’s happening in Jacksonville with Mac Jones. It’s unfortunate to see his career spiral downward due to the Patricia-led offense in 2022 and Belichick’s apparent disengagement with him in 2023. Jones seems beyond repair, which should not be the case for Drake Maye. He will have a competent offensive staff and hopefully a stronger offensive line and better receivers to support him.
Mayo mentioned on WEEI this week that this year’s results won’t reflect what’s to come and that improvements are expected.