Jerod Mayo, in his inaugural head coaching role, conducted an extensive search to secure the first offensive coordinator for his tenure. After engaging with twelve candidates and exploring diverse options, Mayo ultimately chose a highly respected veteran coach poised to introduce a fresh offensive scheme to the New England Patriots.
Throughout the search, Mayo considered numerous promising young candidates lacking play-calling experience, interviewed individuals with previous ties to the Patriots, and conversed with several former offensive coordinators. Despite the array of options, Mayo’s decision crystallized when he met with Alex Van Pelt.
On Thursday, Mayo officially appointed Van Pelt as the Patriots’ next offensive coordinator. This decision followed an in-person interview at Gillette Stadium on the same day, as disclosed by a reliable source. Van Pelt emerged as the 12th candidate interviewed by Mayo for the position and the third coach to engage with the Patriots’ leadership within the week. Boasting ample experience, Van Pelt most recently served as the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach for the Cleveland Browns, concluding his four-season tenure (2020-23) with the team’s season-end dismissal.
Prior to joining the Patriots, Van Pelt had interviewed for the vacant offensive coordinator role with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. His selection over a diverse group of coaches, encompassing varying levels of experience and age, underscores Mayo’s confidence in Van Pelt’s ability to steer the Patriots’ offensive strategy in a new direction.
