It’s the dawn of a new era for the New England Patriots.
Bill Belichick is out, and Jero Mayo is in.
And while some of the former coaching staff could stay in Foxboro for the upcoming campaign, the former linebacker also will put together a team of his own.
With that in mind, Coach Mayo is already writing names on his shortlist of potential top assistants.
According to Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network, Mayo and the Patriots will interview Carolina Panthers’ OLBs coach Tem Lukabu for their defensive coordinator position.
Lukabu comes with plenty of experience, as he used to serve as Boston College’s defensive coordinator and also had stints with the San Francisco 49ers and Cincinnati Bengals.
New #Patriots coach Jerod Mayo has begun the process of filling out his staff, as he’s set to interview #Panthers OLBs coach Tem Lukabu for their defensive coordinator position, source said. A former Boston College DC, he’s been with #49ers and #Bengals, as well.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 15, 2024
The Panthers were obviously one of the worst teams in the league this season, but their defense was actually much better than their final record could state.
They allowed the second-fewest total yards per game (305.3), the third-fewest passing yards per game (171.5), and the ninth-fewest rushing yards per game (122.4).
Inexplicably, they also allowed the third-most points per game (24.5) in the league.
Whatever the case, Lukabu has made a solid impression during his tenure in the league.
The Patriots’ defense was the lone bright spot for them amid this complicated season, and he could have some big shoes to fill after Bill Belichick’s departure.
It’ll be interesting to see what other names make Mayo’s shortlist as he looks to keep up with the Patriots’ long-withstanding history of elite and disciplined defensive play.
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