Jerod Mayo to make history as first Black head coach for Patriots

Details: Mayo has been the linebackers coach under out-going coach Bill Belichick.

• Before turning to coaching, the Virginia native played his entire seven-year career at linebacker for the Patriots between 2008 and 2015.

The intrigue: The Patriots have had their eye on Mayo as a potential heir apparent since hiring him as linebackers coach in 2019 and extending his contract in January 2023.

Catch up quick: Belichick parted ways with the Patriots Thursday after 24 seasons and an unparalleled run that included six Super Bowl wins.

• The Pats' dismal 2023 season ended in a 4-13 record and left owner Robert Kraft searching for the next leader of the once-dominant franchise.

What's next: Kraft and the Patriots still need to fill Belichick's other major role – general manager in charge of the team's front office.

• Once Mayo is joined by a GM, the new management team will set out to rebuild the struggling squad.
• The Pats pick third in this year's NFL draft, a huge opportunity to bring in young talent.