During a recent New England Patriots game, cameras caught Jonathan Kraft voicing his frustration to Robert Kraft about the team’s playcalling, describing it as “horrible.” With the Patriots struggling under first-year head coach Jerod Mayo and sitting at 3-11, this public display of dissatisfaction raises questions about Mayo’s future with the team. Could a coaching change already be on the horizon?
The Krafts after the 2nd & 11 RB draw.
RKK questions the play calling.
JK: “The play calling is horrible.” #Patriots pic.twitter.com/O0kyuRMpMq
— Nick Cattles (@NickCRadio) December 15, 2024
If the Patriots decide to move on from Mayo after the 2024 season, several high-profile candidates could step into the role. Here are the top contenders and their odds with estimated probabilities:
Odds for the Next Patriots Head Coach
- Mike Vrabel (+300) – 25%
- Ben Johnson (+500) – 16.7%
- Bobby Slowik (+700) – 12.5%
- Josh McDaniels (+1000) – 9.1%
- Brian Flores (+1200) – 7.7%
Mike Vrabel: The Favorite (3/1, 25%)
Mike Vrabel, a former Patriots linebacker and a New England fan favorite, is widely considered the top candidate. Vrabel recently parted ways with the Tennessee Titans after a successful stint as their head coach, where he developed a reputation for defensive toughness and leadership. His familiarity with the Patriots’ culture and strong ties to the Kraft family make him a natural fit.
Vrabel’s experience as a head coach and his ability to connect with players would address some of the leadership gaps evident this season. Bringing him back to Foxborough would also generate goodwill among fans eager to see a return to the franchise’s hard-nosed identity.
Ben Johnson: The Innovative Choice (5/1, 16.7%)
Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson has emerged as one of the NFL’s brightest offensive minds. His ability to design creative game plans and maximize talent has helped the Lions become one of the league’s most dynamic offenses.
The Patriots’ offensive struggles this year, particularly under rookie quarterback Drake Maye, highlight the need for a coach who can rejuvenate the attack. Johnson’s expertise in modern offensive schemes makes him an appealing candidate to revamp the Patriots’ approach.
Bobby Slowik: The Rising Star (7/1, 12.5%)
Bobby Slowik, the offensive coordinator for the Houston Texans, has quickly built a reputation as an up-and-coming talent. His work developing C.J. Stroud into a standout rookie quarterback has turned heads around the league.
Given the Patriots’ focus on building around Maye, Slowik’s track record in mentoring young quarterbacks makes him an intriguing option. His forward-thinking offensive strategies could provide the spark the Patriots desperately need.
Josh McDaniels: The Familiar Face (10/1, 9.1%)
Josh McDaniels, the former Patriots offensive coordinator, is currently out of a job after his brief tenure with the Las Vegas Raiders. Rumors suggest McDaniels could join Bill Belichick, now at the University of North Carolina, but his connection to the Patriots keeps him in the mix.
McDaniels’ familiarity with the organization and history of success with the Pats make him a safer, if less exciting, choice. However, questions about his head coaching record and ability to adapt to today’s NFL linger.
Brian Flores: The Defensive Leader (12/1, 7.7%)
Brian Flores, now the defensive coordinator for the Minnesota Vikings, has prior head coaching experience with the Miami Dolphins and a long tenure with the Patriots under Belichick. His defensive acumen and no-nonsense approach align well with the Patriots’ historical identity.
Flores’ legal battle with the NFL over hiring practices might complicate his candidacy, but his ability to lead and command respect could make him a strong contender.
Commentary
Jerod Mayo’s tenure as Patriots head coach might not be over yet, but Jonathan Kraft’s frustration signals a growing sense of urgency. If Mayo doesn’t show signs of improvement, the Patriots may not hesitate to explore new leadership.
Mike Vrabel’s connections to the team and his head coaching success make him the obvious frontrunner. Ben Johnson and Bobby Slowik represent exciting offensive minds who could modernize the Patriots’ attack, while Josh McDaniels and Brian Flores offer familiarity and defensive credibility, respectively.
Whoever steps in, the next coach will face a monumental challenge: restoring the Patriots to competitive relevance in a league that is rapidly evolving.
