The New England Patriots underwent many changes in the 2022 offseason, both on the roster and in terms of personnel. One of the biggest changes was the departure of Josh McDaniels, as he took the head coaching position with the Las Vegas Raiders.
McDaniels spent 10 years with New England and was a key piece of the Patriots’ championship-winning teams. He oversaw much of the Tom Brady era and was able to guide Mac Jones in his rookie season.
The Patriots elected not to name a full-time offensive coordinator. This could present problems heading into the fall, according to one ESPN analyst.
The departure of McDaniels, as well as the lack of a full-time offensive coordinator, does not sit well with ESPN’s Louis Riddick.
The Patriots’ lack of explosiveness on the outside was concerning going into last season, but I’m more concerned this year about who will be in the ear of Jones when it comes to his development and the playcalling. That continuity, relationship and chemistry is not easy to duplicate, and given the coaches Belichick is seemingly choosing from to take McDaniels’ place — including offensive assistants Joe Judge and Matt Patricia — I have significant concerns.
The lack of an offense of coordinator could be an interesting subplot for the upcoming season. New England managed to get Jones more weapons at wide receiver, most notably DeVante Parker, but losing McDaniels could hurt the young quarterback.
Nevertheless, the Patriots will have to figure out how to run a cohesive offensive unit if they want to have success in the AFC East.
