Mayo provides some insight into offseason vision


Getty Images

Despite the whole still not technically having a GM thing (although he’s probably in the building already), apparently the Patriots are planning a big roster shakeup this offseason.

During an interview with The Greg Hill Show (Greg Hill, Jermaine Wiggins & Courtney Cox) on Monday morning, new Patriots head coach Jerod Mayo talked about a number of things, including quite a different approach to roster building than everything we’ve heard or seen the last two decades.

“We’re bringing in talent, 1,000%, so, have a lot of cap space and cash, ready to burn some cash,” Mayo said lightheartedly. Even joking about the cash the Krafts are willing to spend would have been a ‘bombshell’ from Belichick around here as Mayo already continues providing early glimpses of just how different things are going to be.

There’s also a unique perspective he has when it comes to a collaborative effort deciding on what to do with the No. 3 pick in the draft. Not everyone is going to agree, but opinions and ideas will absolutely be heard and taken into consideration.

“I don’t think you can get the entire organization to see it the same,” Mayo said. “They may see the position that we need as like ‘we need a quarterback. Or, we need a running back. Or, we need a receiver.’ But, at the same time, there’s a lot that goes into those picks. You know, coaches…we’ll evaluate. We’ll evaluate those players, but we also have a scouting department that’s paid to do a lot of that stuff as well.

“At the end of the day, we have to make a decision and honestly, we’re responsible for it.”

When pushed on which way he was leaning in terms of that all important third pick, Mayo wouldn’t budge, but if you read between the lines, it’s pretty clear where this thing is headed for the Patriots.

“I would tell you we’re going to take the best available player for the biggest need on the team,” he said. “I mean, offensive line, receiver, quarterback, pick your choice….”

What about the analytics? With so many coaches in both college and the NFL becoming a slave to the numbers these days, the ability to balance the computer and that gut feel for a coach is paramount. Despite his business experience with Optum, as a former player, Mayo acknowledged he’ll be more of a gut guy than a numbers guy.

“I think there’s a place for analytics for sure. At the same time, you would like the analytics to confirm your gut and sometimes it goes both ways. If the analytics don’t go with my gut, I gotta go with my gut.”

It’s a new age of transparency down in Foxborough that’s going to take some getting-used-to. Heck, Mayo was even willing to assure the fan base and listening audience there won’t be another four-win season in 2024.

“I do feel that way,” he added. “I’m on record (that we’re going to win more than four games), absolutely.”