Bill Belichick wasn’t in the mood to expound on recent acquisitions Tuesday morning at the annual NFL coaches breakfast, but he did begin his media availability with some kind words for linebacker Jerod Mayo.
Mayo announced his retirement via Instagram last month. Belichick had yet to comment on Mayo’s decision to call it a career.
“I talked to Jerod a few weeks ago. He told me about his retirement,” Belichick said. “There have been very few players in my career that I’ve had the opportunity to coach that have had more of an impact on the team than Jerod has from Day 1, which is unusual. From the first day he walked into the facility, which was his pre-draft visit, to after we drafted him in 2008, he’s been a pleasure to coach, great addition to our team both on and off the field. I’m sure I learned a lot more from him than he did from me. Jerod, Chani and their family brought a special glow to our team, to our organization. Although Jerod will always be part of the team — he’ll always be welcome — he’ll be missed on a daily basis. The attitude and work ethic and love for football he brought was special. He was very special.”
Mayo, 30, became a part-time player for the Patriots in 2015 after his 2013 and 2014 seasons ended early due to injuries. He recorded 803 tackles, 11 sacks, three interceptions and eight forced fumbles in eight seasons with the Patriots. He was named a first-team All-Pro in 2010 and earned two Pro Bowl selections.
Thumbnail photo via Howard Smith/USA TODAY Sports Images
