When it became clear Jerod Mayo would be sticking around New England, most assumed the highly regarded Patriots assistant had received a promotion as part of his new contract extension.
After all, Mayo reportedly turned down opportunities to interview for defensive coordinator and head-coaching jobs with other clubs. He wouldn't do that just to continue being the Patriots' linebackers coach, right?
Wrong, according to a report Thursday from the Boston Herald's Karen Guregian.
Guregian reported Patriots fans should "should pump the brakes on (Mayo) having a new title going forward."
"A pay raise for sure, and his overall role could change," Guregian tweeted, "but there might not be a different title."
That report came as a surprise, as most have assumed Mayo would have a title like "assistant head coach" added to his official job description this offseason. The 36-year-old former linebacker has spent the past several seasons serving as the team's de facto co-defensive coordinator alongside Steve Belichick, but neither had a DC title and Belichick called New England's defensive plays.
Head coach Bill Belichick downplayed the importance of titles multiple times before and during the 2022 season. The Patriots have not employed a named defensive coordinator since 2017.
Mayo has recently expanded the scope of his responsibilities beyond defense. He reportedly was involved in the Patriots' interviews for a new offensive coordinator -- a search that ultimately led to Bill O'Brien's hiring as OC/quarterbacks coach.
The Patriots have yet to announce any changes to their coaching staff outside of O'Brien's return.
