Jerod Mayo on Patriots’ Mindset Holding No. 1 Draft Slot: ‘Never Gone into a Game Not Wanting to Win’
FOXBOROUGH, Mass. – After a disappointing 2022 season that saw the New England Patriots miss the playoffs for the second time in three years, the team finds itself with the No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming NFL Draft.
While some may view this as a sign of failure, Patriots inside linebackers coach Jerod Mayo sees it as an opportunity to build a winning culture.
“We’ve never gone into a game not wanting to win,” Mayo said during a press conference on Tuesday. “Just because we had a tough season last year doesn’t mean we’re going to stop trying to win.”
Mayo, who played for the Patriots from 2008 to 2015, knows what it takes to be successful in New England. He was a key member of the team’s three Super Bowl victories during that span.
“The Patriots have always been about winning,” Mayo said. “That’s the standard that Bill Belichick has set, and that’s the standard that we’re going to continue to uphold.”
Mayo believes that the Patriots can use the No. 1 draft pick to add a player who can help them get back to the top of the NFL.
Building Blocks for Success
The Patriots have a number of needs that they could address with the No. 1 pick, including quarterback, wide receiver, and defensive end.
At quarterback, the Patriots are expected to move on from Mac Jones, who struggled in his second season as a starter. They could select Alabama’s Bryce Young or Ohio State’s C.J. Stroud, both of whom are considered to be potential franchise quarterbacks.
At wide receiver, the Patriots need to find a replacement for Jakobi Meyers, who is set to become a free agent. They could select one of the top receivers in the draft, such as TCU’s Quentin Johnston or USC’s Jordan Addison.
On defense, the Patriots need to add a pass rusher to help their struggling pass defense. They could select Georgia’s Jalen Carter or Alabama’s Will Anderson Jr., both of whom are considered to be the best pass rushers in the draft.
No matter who the Patriots select with the No. 1 pick, Mayo is confident that they will be a good addition to the team.
“We’re going to do our due diligence and make sure we select the best player available,” Mayo said. “We’re looking for someone who can come in and make an immediate impact.”
A New Era in New England
With the No. 1 draft pick and a number of talented players already on the roster, the Patriots are poised to make a run back to the playoffs in 2023.
Mayo is excited about the future of the Patriots.
“We have a lot of young talent on this team,” Mayo said. “I’m excited to see what we can accomplish this season.”
The Patriots will begin their 2023 season on September 10th at home against the Pittsburgh Steelers.