NFL Rumors: New England Patriots Have Future Head Coach in Mind

The New England Patriots have enjoyed one of the most fruitful runs in NFL history under head coach Bill Belichick, but all good things must end. Belichick turns 71 years old later this year, and the Patriots have apparently begun looking to the future. Speaking with the media on Monday, owner Robert Kraft sang the praises of current linebackers head coach Jerod Mayo and expressed hope that the former linebacker could be a future head coach with the Patriots.

"He'll be a head coach... I hope he's with us."

Robert Kraft on Jerod Mayo#ForeverNE pic.twitter.com/4YC6KeXjfJ
— NBC Sports Boston's Patriots Coverage (@NBCSPatriots) March 27, 2023

Mayo played inside linebacker for the Patriots from 2008 to 2015 after being drafted 10th overall in the 2008 NFL Draft. He earned Pro Bowls in 2010 and 2012. After retiring, Mayo rejoined the Patriots in 2019 as their linebackers coach. Their defenses have been solid in his tenure, ranking eighth or better in yards allowed in three of the past four years.

As a former star player with a championship pedigree, Mayo would certainly command respect in whatever locker room he takes over. Still only 37 years old, his resume as a coach may be pretty thin, but he should have plenty of time to build and grow. Despite a middling three years following the departure of longtime quarterback Tom Brady, Belichick hasn't shown any hints that retirement is in his near future; as long as he wants the job in New England, it's his. He could mentor Mayo in the coming years until it's time to ride off into the sunset.