Mayo, a Patriots linebacker, played his whole eight-year NFL career there. After Belichick left, team owner Robert Kraft labeled him a "strong candidate" for head coach.
Mayo, a Patriots linebacker, played his whole eight-year NFL career there. After Belichick left, team owner Robert Kraft labeled him a "strong candidate" for head coach.
Mayo was drafted 10th overall by the Patriots in 2008. Only one rookie from the draft class started Week 1. Mayo was voted AP Defensive Rookie of the Year with 128 tackles in his NFL debut.
Mayo received further accolades. He retired as a Patriots' All-2010s Team member, two-time Pro Bowler, and 2010 First-Team All-Pro.
In 2014, Mayo tore his patellar tendon and was placed on injured reserve. Patriots defeated Seahawks in Super Bowl XLIX.
In 2019, Mayo became Patriots inside linebackers coach three years after retiring. He was offered other coaching jobs throughout the league, but he preferred New England.
According to Patriots linebacker Matthew Judon, "He demands greatness from everyone. He knows grandeur is only possible for a day or a minute." The coach said, "Jerod was probably the best communicator on defense we've ever had here."
Patriots defensive tackle Lawrence Guy said: “Jerod is a good coach and wants to improve. Having played on the field and placed his hand in the mud, he knows from both sides and can encourage and elevate others by saying, "This is what we got to do." We did it this way when I played. Call these numbers, try this. Failure awaits you. It will be your success.'