In a press conference held on Wednesday, January 17, 2024, at 12 PM ET, the New England Patriots officially introduced Jerod Mayo as their new head coach.
The event, graced by the presence of Mayo, team owner Robert Kraft, and team president Jonathan Kraft, marked the dawning of a new era for the storied franchise.
As he stepped into the spotlight, Mayo expressed his determination to forge his legacy, distinct from the shadow of his predecessor.
“I’m not trying to be Bill. Bill is his own man. If you can’t tell by now, I’m a little different,” Mayo asserted during his introduction as the new head coach. “The more I think about the lessons that I’ve taken from Bill: Hard work works. That’s what we’re all about.”
In outlining his vision for the future, Mayo employed a metaphorical perspective, likening his approach to gardening.
“I see it as gardening. They don’t grow anything, they just make sure the soil is right, grab the weeds, and water every day. That’s how I approach leadership,” explained Mayo. “I want to just water seed. Right now we’re planting seeds and hopefully that will lead to the next dynasty here with the Kraft family.”
Jerod Mayo’s journey with the New England Patriots began in 2008 as the 10th overall pick in the NFL Draft. His rookie season saw him earn Defensive Rookie of the Month and finish with 128 tackles, securing the AP Defensive Rookie of the Year award.
Despite challenges in 2009, overcoming a knee injury, Mayo returned resiliently in Week 5, tallying 103 tackles and 1.5 sacks. In 2010, he notched a league-high 175 tackles, earning Pro Bowl and All-Pro team honors.
In 2011, despite missing three games, Mayo surpassed 100 tackles and reached Super Bowl XLVI. In 2012, he was recognized as a defensive co-captain but faced challenges, including a $10,000 fine.
From 2013 to 2015, injuries led to Mayo’s stints on injured reserve, missing significant playing time. Despite this, the Patriots won Super Bowl XLIX in 2014.
Mayo’s playing time decreased in 2015, and he was placed on injured reserve with a shoulder injury just before the AFC Championship.
On February 16, 2016, he officially announced retirement, capping off eight memorable years with the Patriots.
On March 27, 2019, the New England Patriots appointed Jerod Mayo as their inside linebackers coach. He will now be taking the reins from the legendary Bill Belichick, to become the 15th head coach in Patriots history.
FYI, Jerod Mayo is also going to be the first Black head coach in New England Patriots history.
