New Report on Belichick Sons' Patriots Future is Major Surprise

The New England Patriots are officially entering a new, non-Bill Belichick era following the hiring of Jerod Mayo as his successor. While Mayo's playing and coaching roots are tied to the six-time Super Bowl winner's system, many have thought he'd look to blaze his own trail now as HC.

That would put those with deep ties to Belichick in jeopardy of being shown the door, like his sons, Steve and Brian. However, that doesn't actually appear to be the case.

Sports Illustrated's Albert Breer reports both Steve and Brian Belichick have "already been offered" the chance to return in 2024 as part of Mayo's staff. Breer notes Mayo and Steve have "grown close" over the years while working together, making it a possibility this partnership continues.

This news does come as a bit of a surprise. After all, Bill has made it clear he's openly pursuing other head-coaching opportunities, so his sons appeared destined to move on from New England with him. As a first-time HC, no one would blame Mayo if he wanted to start with a fresh slate, either, and move on from Belichick's holdovers.

However, perhaps the notion of eliminating at least some staff turnover appealed to Robert Kraft. The Patriot Way can still live on without Belichick at the helm, and hiring one of his disciples is certainly one method to keep that philosophy alive.

Mayo has shown early indications of wanting to keep the band together, or even bring back former members, like Josh McDaniels. So that doesn't make it a shock he'd be open to the Belichick sons sticking around even if it isn't their dad in charge.

If this is the best approach by Mayo is another conversation entirely, but he at least has a vision. Now it's on him to prove this is the right path to follow.

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