Rumor: New England Patriots' Assistant Jerod Mayo 'Rubbing People Wrong Way'

New England Patriots linebackers coach Jerod Mayo is viewed as a top candidate to become the next head coach if they move on from Bill Belichick.

What the New England Patriots decide to do with Bill Belichick remains the biggest story heading into the final stretch of the season for the franchise.

Should they move on, linebackers coach Jerod Mayo is one of the candidates who could replace Belichick, though reports show he could be losing fans in the building. The Boston Sports Journal reported that Mayo hasn't given off the best impression to multiple people in the building, and it could be a sign of his future in New England (3-11).

"Multiple team sources indicated Mayo has rubbed at least some people the wrong way in the building since his extension and when he, perhaps, received a strong indication he would be the successor," The Boston Sports Journal writes."

Jerod Mayo coaching on the sideline / USA Today Sports

Mayo was the Patriots' inside linebackers coach from 2019-2022 before becoming the linebackers coach this season. He also agreed to a contract extension before this season amid potential interest from teams with a head coaching vacancy. Mayo, 37, interviewed for the Philadelphia Eagles head coaching job in 2021 and then interviewed with the Denver Broncos and Las Vegas Raiders in 2022. 

Before entering the coaching ranks, Mayo played his entire NFL career with the Patriots from 2008-2015. The former linebacker was the 2008 Rookie of the Year, First-Team All-Pro in 2010, two-time Pro Bowler (2010 and 2012) and a Super Bowl champion in 2014.

With New England in the middle of an abysmal season, Mayo rubbing people the wrong way if he has been assured by owner Robert Kraft that he'll either be the next head coach or would at least be a strong candidate if they part ways with Belichick wouldn't be a shock. There's a reason why New England wanted to keep Mayo rather than him interviewing for jobs elsewhere. 

Belichick Deflects Questions on Patriots Future: 'Ask Mr. Kraft'

Where things become interesting is the ripple effect of Mayo falling out of favor with some people in the building. If it's people who would be tasked with leading a coaching search if the Patriots move on from Belichick, it could be a huge blow to Mayo's shot at becoming the next head coach. If it's fellow coaches who are upset with Mayo, then it could signal New England will have plenty of turnover on the coaching staff if he gets the job. 

Either way, it's potentially more drama to keep an eye on as the Patriots potentially trek toward moving on from one of the greatest coaches in sports history.

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