Jerod Mayo Already Copying Bill Belichick in One Controversial Area

Bill Belichick might be out of the door in Foxborough, but it appears nepotism could still be lingering behind. Deron Mayo, the younger brother of head coach Jerod Mayo, is reportedly expected to become New England's head strength and conditioning coach with the news that Moses Cabrera, who previously held that title, is not returning.

Deron Mayo served as New England's assistant strength and conditioning coach since 2018. Cabrera had worked on the Patriots staff since 2011 and was the head strength and conditioning coach since 2016. He earned three Super Bowl rings during his tenure with the organization.

Jerod Mayo, two years Deron's senior, made a statement during his introductory press conference that stands out even more now in the context of Deron Mayo's promotion:

"I think the weight room is one of the most important areas in the building to evaluate the people you have on your team."

- Patriots Head Coach Jerod Mayo

Former head coach Bill Belichick's nepotism and favoritism in New England was no secret, and it became an even more controversial topic of discussion once the Patriots' win total began to diminish.

Belichick hired his two sons to be on staff in New England and was notorious for hiring kids of his football buddies (i.e. Mick Lombardi) or "lacrosse bros" (i.e. Mike Pellegrino). Belichick often kept his circle of trust limited to close confidants, a tactic often intended to eliminate dissension.

Objectively, nepotism is not a phenomenon limited to New England, as it can run rampant in NFL franchises. However, when you are a first-year head coach coming off of a 4-13 season, every move will be closely scrutinized, as it should be.

Bill Belichick's eldest son, Steve, spent 12 seasons on his father's staff in Foxborough, assuming play-calling duties at times. Steve Belichick was hired on Feb. 6 by former New England quarterbacks coach Jedd Fisch as the Washington Huskies' defensive coordinator.

Brian Belichick will reportedly remain on staff under Mayo despite his father's departure. Brian Belichick has been with the Patriots since 2016 and most recently served as their safeties coach, a position he has held since 2020.

Finally, Deron Mayo played college football at Hofstra before transferring to Old Dominion for his final season. Mayo was signed by the Denver Broncos as an undrafted free agent in 2011 but did not appear in a regular season game for Denver. From 2012-17, he suited up for the Calgary Stampeders of the Canadian Football League.

Patriots may not have to wait long for total clarity on the 2024 coaching staff. According to ESPN's Mike Reiss, the Patriots are expected to announce their staff for the upcoming season early this week.

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