Alex Van Pelt Makes First Comments on New Patriots Job

The New England Patriots are entering a new era. For the first time in 24 seasons, the Patriots will not have Bill Belichick at the helm, opening the door for new philosophies and playing style.

These changes will be spearheaded by the new coaching staff, headlined by the new head coach Jerod Mayo, as well as the new offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt. Former offensive coordinator for the Cleveland Browns, Van Pelt just gave his first interview in his new position.

Patriots' New Offensive Coordinator to Prioritize the Running Game

Van Pelt was brought to New England to transform the offense that was the second-worst in the NFL last season. The 53-year-old experienced coach has had plenty of experience in Cleveland building solid offensive schemes despite consistently being short-handed and having different quarterbacks start seemingly every other week.

One of the priorities for Van Pelt is going to be the rushing attack. The Patriots struggled immensely running the ball, ranking 25th in the league in rushing yards per attempt. Van Pelt is a strong believer in the power of running the football.

"I think running the football in this league wins games, wins championships. We have to do that late in the season."

- Patriots OC Alex Van Pelt

During his Browns' tenure, Van Pelt's offenses ranked fifth, first, and 11th in rushing yards in the first three seasons in Cleveland before struggling in 2023 without star RB Nick Chubb. He will need to replicate the same success in New England.

However, Van Pelt isn't rigid about his philosophies, highlighting the importance of scheme flexibility and versatility. Stating that he would have schemes that players would understand but added, "If it doesn't fit the player, then how good is the scheme?"

The biggest factor in determining the Patriots' success on the offensive end next season will surely be the quarterback position. New England will almost certainly have a new QB next season, and how well he does under Alex Van Pelt's new offense will decide the fate of the Patriots in the first year of this rebuild.

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