Retired New England Patriots linebacker Jerod Mayo joined coach Bill Belichick’s staff prior to last season, and has already made a strong enough impression to score a head coaching interview with the Philadelphia Eagles.
The latest word out of Philadelphia and Foxborough is that Mayo will get a crack at the Eagles’ vacancy, which came about after they decided to fire Doug Pederson.
Jerod Mayo expected to interview for Philadelphia Eagles HC vacancy
NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport had the news on Mayo, whose gaudy status as a player and brief experience under Belichick as a coach are boosting his stock in a big way.
Mayo was a first-team All-Pro in 2010 and went to the Pro Bowl in 2012 after being selected 10th overall in the 2008 NFL Draft. Unfortunately, injuries plagued Mayo’s playing career, and he was never able to fully maximize his career as he retired after only eight seasons.
Most teams are in awe of what the Patriots do, but many of Belichick’s assistants have flamed out when they’ve gotten head coach opportunities in the past. Mayo is different in that he was also a player in New England’s system, so he could offer some unique insight into how the Pats win so consistently at such a high level.
How Jerod Mayo would fit with Philadelphia Eagles
Rapoport explained in the video above that Mayo is one of the smartest players he’s ever been around in many years of covering the NFL. The ability to execute New England’s defense and be a leader on and off the field in that regard is something that sets Mayo apart from the rest of the pack of candidates.
It’s an admittedly big jump from inside linebackers coach to head coach, but if anyone can do it, Mayo seems suited to. Especially with the lack of minority candidates for head coach and executive positions around the league, it’d be refreshing to see a deserving leader like Mayo earn an early shot at a gig.
As for the fit with the Eagles, they’re really in a tough spot. With an uncertain future at the quarterback position between a relatively unproven Jalen Hurts and an underwhelming big-contract player in Carson Wentz, it’s a messy situation to navigate.
While Mayo would definitely be of help on the defensive side of the ball as Philadelphia tries to compensate for the departure of longtime coordinator Jim Schwartz, the offense really needs work. Plus, the Eagles are due to be $51 million over the cap in 2021, limiting their options to upgrade personnel.
Even though Philadelphia just beat the Patriots in Super Bowl LII a little less than three years ago, this really isn’t the most attractive opening in the short term. At least it’s worth speaking with the Eagles brass for Mayo, who could pick up steam as a candidate for other vacancies if all goes well in Philly. Or, maybe it’s a perfect fit and Mayo becomes a surprise hire who changes the culture immediately following a 4-11-1 Eagles season.