Patriots name new head coach

Aug 10, 2023; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; A New England Patriots helmet sits on the sideline during the first half against the Houston Texans at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Eric Canha-USA TODAY Sports

The New England Patriots have moved quickly to hire a new head coach after parting ways with Bill Belichick.

Jerod Mayo has been named the new head coach of the Patriots, according to multiple reports. The team is expected to announce the decision in a press conference next week.

Mayo played for the Patriots from 2008 to 2015 and has been a member of the team’s coaching staff since 2019, most recently as linebackers coach.

The Patriots have tabbed Mayo as their next head coach dating back at least a year. Last offseason, they warded off interest from other teams by openly announcing that they were working on a new contract with the 37-year-old.

Mayo is highly regarded by owner Robert Kraft, and there have long been rumors about him being viewed as the coach-in-waiting once Belichick departed.

There was some speculation that the Patriots could alter their plan after Mike Vrabel — another former Pats linebacker — was unexpectedly fired by the Tennessee Titans. That did not inspire Kraft to deviate from his succession plan.