Patriots Hire Josh McDaniels as Offensive Coordinator
The New England Patriots have brought in former Las Vegas Raiders and Denver Broncos head coach Josh McDaniels as their new offensive coordinator. This will be McDaniels’ third time in the role with the team, but it is his first since Bill Belichick’s departure.
Coaching Changes in New England
Along with McDaniels, the Patriots hired Terrell Williams as their new defensive coordinator. Williams, who spent six years on Mike Vrabel’s staff in Tennessee, was promoted from his previous role as the Lions’ defensive line coach. The team has also kept Jeremy Springer as special teams coordinator.
McDaniels’ History with the Patriots
McDaniels worked as the Patriots’ offensive coordinator during Vrabel’s final years as a player in New England. He has a long history with the team, having worked under Belichick for 15 years, including nine years as the offensive coordinator. McDaniels contributed to all six of the Patriots’ Super Bowl wins. His next task will be mentoring quarterback Drake Maye, who is entering his second season with the team.
Williams’ Background and Impact
Williams comes to New England after serving as the defensive run game coordinator for the Detroit Lions last season, where their defense ranked fifth in the NFL for fewest yards allowed per game. He was also part of Vrabel’s first staff in Tennessee and was promoted to assistant head coach in 2023.
Springer’s Success with Special Teams
Jeremy Springer, who remains as special teams coordinator, had success last season with Brenden Schooler making the first team All-Pro and securing his first Pro Bowl spot. Marcus Jones also led the league with a 14.8-yard average on punt returns. Springer previously spent time as a special teams assistant with the Los Angeles Rams and coached in college for eight years.
McDaniels’ Coaching Journey
McDaniels left New England in 2009 to become the head coach of the Denver Broncos for two years. After a brief stint as the Rams’ offensive coordinator, he returned to the Patriots. He then took over as the Raiders’ head coach in 2021, but was fired mid-season in 2023.
Other Candidates Interviewed by the Patriots
The Patriots also interviewed several other candidates for their coaching staff, including Vikings assistant offensive coordinator Grant Udinski, former Chicago Bears interim head coach Thomas Brown, and Los Angeles Chargers passing game coordinator Marcus Brady.
