Less than 24 hours after Bill Belichick and the New England Patriots announced that they would mutually part ways, the team unveiled his successor. Former Patriots linebacker and recent assistant coach Jerod Mayo was promoted to Belichick’s former position, filling some of the biggest shoes in pro football history.
How the 37-year-old — the NFL’s youngest head coach — will fare remains to be seen. There is plenty of optimism about his future, and as the 15th head coach in Patriots franchise history.
Look no further than Patriots past and present taking to social media after the promotion was first reported to express their thoughts on Mayo.
Ja’Whaun Bentley (current Patriots LB)
Yessirrrr!!! https://t.co/vhPoBVEnmj
— JB (@NVBentley33) January 12, 2024
Mack Wilson Sr. (current Patriots LB)
The start of a New Era that I’d love to be apart of. So happy for this dude.. Well deserved BIG COACH! ❤️ pic.twitter.com/VDwd2HJ5Mm
— MWS (@MackWilSr) January 12, 2024
Jamie Collins Sr. (former Patriots LB)
The ultimate Patriot. The next best thing in the new era of football. Glad to have played with you. Showed me the game in different views. Happy for ya big dawg https://t.co/A3DOTCoGjH
— Jamie Collins (@JamieLee601) January 12, 2024
Brandon Spikes (former Patriots LB)
Huge congrats to my brother on becoming the Head Coach of the @Patriots Your hard work, leadership, and dedication have always set you apart. Can’t wait to see you lead the team to a Super Bowl – it’s well-deserved! I know your greatness will shine in this new role! #Pats pic.twitter.com/Sm1JzkGB2f
— BrandonSpikes55 (@brandonspikes55) January 12, 2024
Vince Wilfork (former Patriots DT)
James White (former Patriots RB)
Congrats to Mayo! He definitely will be a great head coach https://t.co/DVjfckGvCM
— James White (@SweetFeet_White) January 12, 2024
Chris Long (former Patriots LB)
MAYO!! Class of 08 succeeding the hoodie. Excited for him!!
— chris long (@JOEL9ONE) January 12, 2024
Jason McCourty (former Patriots CB)
Excited for the Mayo era in New England
I said it on @gmfb his specialty is people!
A fantastic leader and person now takes over! pic.twitter.com/YTx56aNSGA
— Jason McCourty (@JasonMcCourty) January 12, 2024