Mike Vrabel is wasting no time in building his coaching staff with the Patriots. With several key positions to fill, here are some top candidates for the Patriots’ next offensive coordinator:
Josh McDaniels: A seasoned veteran with over two decades of coordinating and play-calling experience. McDaniels has a proven track record, having directed successful rookie seasons for Mac Jones and Cam Newton. His system, although complex, has shown adaptability to different quarterbacks ¹.
Tommy Rees: A rising star in the coaching world, Rees has experience coordinating offenses at the college level. He’s known for blending college elements with West Coast principles, which could be an exciting fit for the Patriots ¹.
Alex Van Pelt: As the current Patriots offensive coordinator, Van Pelt has a year of experience working with quarterback Drake Maye. He’s shown promise in developing Maye’s skills, and his familiarity with the team’s system could make him a strong contender to retain his position ¹.
Josh McCown: A former quarterback with a strong connection to Maye, McCown has experience working with young quarterbacks. His familiarity with the West Coast system and potential to be a play-caller make him an attractive candidate ¹.
Nick Caley: With experience as the Rams’ pass-game coordinator and a background working with Sean McVay, Caley could bring a modern twist to the Patriots’ offense. His familiarity with the team’s system and experience working with tight ends make him a strong contender ¹.
Mike LaFleur: As the Rams’ current offensive coordinator, LaFleur has experience working with Sean McVay and has called plays in the past. His connection to Vrabel, who hired his brother Matt as his first offensive coordinator, makes him a potential candidate ¹.
Todd Downing: With experience as the Jets’ passing game coordinator and a background working with Vrabel, Downing could be a strong contender. His experience working with tight ends and play-calling make him an attractive candidate ¹.
Pep Hamilton: A veteran coach with 25 years of experience, Hamilton has worked with quarterbacks and has experience coordinating offenses. His connection to Vrabel, who interviewed him for the head coach position, makes him a potential candidate ¹.
Byron Leftwich: A former Buccaneers offensive coordinator, Leftwich has experience working with Tom Brady and has a strong understanding of the vertical-based passing offense. His connection to Vrabel, who interviewed him for the head coach position, makes him a potential candidate ¹.
Other notable names, including Klint Kubiak, Justin Outten, Wes Welker, Brian Hartline, and Luke Steckel, could also be considered for assistant positions ¹.
