How Patriots’ Jerod Mayo Responded To Reports About Uncertain Future

Jerod Mayo’s future with the Patriots has been the topic of conversation in New England.

The Athletic’s Dianna Russini, Boston Sports Journal’s Mike Giardi and others published varying reports about whether or not Mayo will return for a second campaign. Russini, specifically, reported Patriots owner Robert Kraft “privately assured” those close to him that Mayo will be given time to grow in the role.

The first-year head coach deflected when asked about Russini’s report.

“I’m not sure where that story came from,” Mayo told reporters at Gillette Stadium on Wednesday, per a team-provided video. “Look, I have multiple conversations on a daily basis with ownership, and they’ve always been very supportive.”

When pressed on the speculation about his future, Mayo responded, “I’m not trying squash anything. I’m trying to let you know where my focus is, and it’s on the Bills. I understand the question.”

Mayo stressed his focus in another response.

“My focus is on this game, the Bills, here, today,” Mayo said. “Things that happen at the end of the season, I can’t control those things. So, it’s all about the Bills.”

The rumors and speculation regarding Mayo’s future reached a fever pitch after Week 15 in Arizona. Not only did the Patriots come out flat in the post-bye week contest, but Mayo made matters worse with his postgame comments, which included a perceived shot at offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt.

Mayo seems to be on shaky ground entering Week 16 against Buffalo And one thing that surely won’t help is if the Patriots put together another uninspiring performance on the field and at the podium.