Patriots Fill Their Defensive Coordinator Opening Internally

The New England Patriots will certainly look drastically different next season with Bill Belichick out Jerod Mayo in, and a likely new quarterback under center. Yet, there will be some familiar faces on Mayo's staff to make the transition a bit easier.

The Patriots Promote DeMarcus Covington to Defensive Coordinator

All signs point to the Patriots promoting DL coach DeMarcus Covington to defensive coordinator, per sources. Should be official early next week, New England has called other candidates to tell them they're out.
— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) January 27, 2024

Just like they did with their head coaching opening, the Patriots elected to fill their defensive coordinator position internally.

Even though the Pats were reportedly considering five candidates for the position, they are going to hire DeMarcus Covington, according to Albert Breer of NBC Sports Boston.

Covington, 34, has been with the organization since 2017. Initially working as a coaching assistant, he became the outside linebackers coach in 2019 and the defensive line coach in 2020.

This promotion makes sense for a variety of reasons. Covington has had a close working relationship with Mayo for years. The defensive line was one of the strongest units for the Patriots last season as New England allowed a league-low 3.3 yards per carry.

Covington's developmental track record is also impressive. Third-year defensive lineman Christian Barmore was one of the best players on the team last season. This was certainly a selling point for Covington to help the Patriots rebuild.

NFL Network's Ian Rapoport highlighted the fact that Covington had impressed in his interviews last year, and was set to do so again this year. The Patriots not allowing a highly sought-after talented coach to leave is a smart move.

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