It didn’t take long for New England Patriots’ defensive end Keion White to notice a difference in style between new head coach Jerod Mayo and former coach Bill Belichick.
Speaking to reporters after OTAs, White highlighted a significant change since Mayo took over, as reported by Pro Football Talk’s Michael David Smith: “We don’t have Bill cursing us out every play anymore, but it’s still pretty similar.”
Belichick’s tough demeanor wasn’t for everyone, but White appreciated it: “I miss it. I like Bill. He’s my type of coach, like a hard-ass. I like that. I respond well to things like that.”
https://twitter.com/Nate_Tice/status/1702335702359560435
However, White also respects Mayo for maintaining his own style: “Mayo’s done a pretty good job, too. It’s all different. Mayo’s doing a really good job of staying true to himself, not trying to fill somebody else’s shoes, but create his own path, and I really respect that.”
Whether Mayo’s gentler approach will work remains to be seen, but the Patriots are undergoing significant changes since Belichick’s departure. Mayo doesn’t need to match his predecessor’s intensity if he can prove equally adept in strategic aspects, particularly on defense.
### Jerod Mayo Needs to Forge His Own Path
Belichick’s methods had become less effective in his final years, especially after six-time Super Bowl-winning quarterback Tom Brady left for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2020. Without Brady, Belichick’s strict approach couldn’t cover the team’s weaknesses, resulting in three losing seasons out of four, ending with a 4-11 record in 2023.
This disappointing performance led to Mayo’s promotion from inside linebackers coach to head coach. At 38, Mayo needs to establish his own identity rather than replicate Belichick.
This change is welcomed by the organization. Rumors suggest team owner Robert Kraft had grown weary of Belichick, even reportedly advising Falcons owner Arthur Blank against hiring him, according to ESPN’s Don Van Natta Jr., Seth Wickersham, and Jeremy Fowler.
Despite any potential tension, the post-Belichick Patriots are already embracing change, with Eliot Wolf playing a larger role in roster decisions. Mayo’s ability to connect with both new recruits and existing players is crucial for the team’s future success.
### Keion White Aims for a Second-Year Leap
White has the potential to disrupt opposing offenses from various positions, but he struggled to complete plays as a rookie. In 16 games, the versatile 25-year-old recorded just one sack but generated 13 pressures, according to Pro Football Reference.
With his blend of speed and power, White has the potential to be a more prolific quarterback hunter. This was evident in a play against the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 1, highlighted by Nate Tice of The Athletic.
White’s ability to play as a traditional defensive end, a stand-up outside linebacker, or slide inside as a defensive tackle makes him a valuable asset in New England’s pass-rush schemes. Mayo needs White to make a significant impact off the edge.
The Patriots have talent on the outside, including veteran Matthew Judon, Josh Uche, and Anfernee Jennings. However, Judon is 31 and recovering from a season-ending torn biceps, Uche excels in specific situations, and Jennings is better at stopping the run than rushing the passer.
At 6-foot-5 and 285 pounds, White has the potential to be the every-down edge-setter and power rusher the Patriots need, provided he thrives under Mayo’s coaching style.
