The New England Patriots made a huge change this offseason when they replaced head coach Bill Belichick with an in-house candidate, Jerod Mayo.
Mayo only played for Belichick when he was a linebacker in the league (2008-15) and only coached for him when he transitioned to the next phase of his life (2019-23). Still, Mayo doesn't want to do everything the same way that Belichick did in New England for 24 seasons.
Ahead of Sunday's season-ticket holder practice, Mayo revealed one in-game change that he's already instituted in the team's first preseason game.
"The special teams coaches in the past didn’t have headsets here, and so, now they do have headsets because I think it is important that we’re all tied in," Mayo said. "That’s just my philosophy."
In fact, the special teams coaches aren't the only ones to get headsets this year. Former special teams captain Matthew Slater, who's helping Mayo with a number of things this season, is also donning one on gameday.
"I think it’s important for him to have a headset and he’s been helping with the special teams as well," Mayo said. "Remember, his role is like this umbrella role, whether it’s advisor or coach, whatever you want to call him. But, he’s always there to help and I think he did a good job."
Early on in his tenure, Mayo has expressed a desire for his coaching staff and team to be more collaborative, and this is another step in that direction.
MORE PATRIOTS NEWS
Patriots defensive back takes first step in taking leadership role in 2024
Terms released for Patriots, Davon Godchaux’s new contract
Former NFL QB breaks down Drake Maye’s first game action
Patriots work out 4 players on Friday after first preseason gam
