New England Patriots Hire Familiar Name As New Offensive Coordinator

The New England Patriots have officially hired Josh McDaniels as their offensive coordinator for the 2025 season, reuniting him with the franchise where he previously played a key role in six Super Bowl championships.

McDaniels, 48, returns to New England after head coaching stints with the Denver Broncos and Las Vegas Raiders, the latter ending with his dismissal midway through the 2023 season.

Known for his offensive acumen, McDaniels rejoins the Patriots under head coach Mike Vrabel, a former teammate and member of the team’s previous dynasty. Together, they aim to revitalize an offense that ranked 31st in scoring last year.

Patriots expected to hire Josh McDaniels as offensive coordinator. (via @RapSheet) pic.twitter.com/dpyAih3VcF
— NFL (@NFL) January 21, 2025

McDaniels is no stranger to success in Foxborough, having served as offensive coordinator from 2006 to 2008 and again from 2012 to 2021.

During those years, he helped develop quarterbacks like Tom Brady and Mac Jones, earning a reputation as one of the league’s top offensive minds. He now inherits second-year quarterback Drake Maye, who showed promise despite the team’s struggles during his rookie campaign.

Former Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski praised the move, saying, “Josh McDaniels has a full grasp of the offense. He knows how to demand respect as an offensive coordinator… I believe he would take Drake Maye to a whole other level.”

Throwback: The #Patriots are expected to hire Josh McDaniels to be their offensive coordinator, sources say, his third stint in this role.

The favorite all along, he interviewed today and solidified his standing. Now, he’ll join Mike Vrabel’s staff and work with Drake Maye. pic.twitter.com/LWEmZJjhsm
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 21, 2025