NFL Hiring May Have Just Forced Josh McDaniels-Patriots Reunion

With Mike Vrabel taking over as the new head coach of the New England Patriots, many fans are wondering who will be the next offensive coordinator. The most recent rumors connected former Pats offensive coordinator and Las Vegas Raiders head coach Josh McDaniels to the OC role.

However, McDaniels wasn’t the only “known” candidate for the Patriots OC role. Cleveland Browns passing game coordinator/tight ends coach Tommy Rees was also mentioned for the role, especially given Vrabel’s time with the Browns this season.

On Monday, Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer wrote in a column that Rees “is of interest” to the Patriots. Then on Tuesday, Patriots insider Tom Curran of NBC Sports Boston gave his thoughts on the OC role on Jones & Keefe on WEEI.

"Josh McDaniels would be on the list; I think he would be a good hire. Tommy Rees is on the list as well, Curran said. I think those two would be the leading candidates... I would think McDaniels would be the best fit."

The Patriots can eliminate Rees off their list as the 32-year-old coach was reportedly hired to be the Browns offensive coordinator. With Rees out of the picture, it sets the stage for the Patriots to bring McDaniels back to Foxborough.

The 48-year-old McDaniels spent part of 18 years in New England in various roles like offensive coordinator, quarterbacks coach, personnel assistant, and defensive assistant,

On Tuesday, Vrabel was asked on WEEI if he’ll bring back McDaniels and the Pats head coach said he’s on the list.

"It’s a long list. There’s a long list, and, you know - I’ve had a relationship with Josh, and I’ve had relationships with other offensive coaches and defensive coaches that we’re going to interview and wanna bring in here, Vrabel said."

The notion of McDaniels being back in Foxborough likely doesn’t excite the fanbase, but Vrabel might have no choice with Rees staying in Cleveland.

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