Josh McDaniels Returns to New England as Offensive Coordinator
The New England Patriots are bringing back a familiar face to lead their offense. Josh McDaniels, who previously served as the team’s offensive coordinator on two separate occasions, is set to reunite with the Patriots in the same role under head coach Mike Vrabel, according to NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport.
McDaniels’ return to New England comes after a brief and unsuccessful stint as head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders. In his two seasons with the Raiders, McDaniels compiled a 9-16 record before being fired midseason in 2023.
Before his time in Las Vegas, McDaniels was highly regarded as the Patriots’ offensive coordinator during the Tom Brady-Bill Belichick era. He first took on the role in 2006 and played a pivotal role in the Patriots’ record-setting offense in 2007, which narrowly missed out on becoming the second undefeated Super Bowl champion in NFL history.
After three seasons with the Patriots, McDaniels left to become the head coach of the Denver Broncos, a position he held for two seasons. He then returned to Foxborough in 2012 and resumed his role as offensive coordinator, overseeing a prolific offense led by Brady.
Under McDaniels’ guidance, the Patriots’ offense ranked in the top five in points scored for seven consecutive seasons (2012-2018), and the team won three Super Bowl titles during that span.
One of McDaniels’ primary responsibilities in his new role will be developing quarterback Drake Maye, who showed promise in his rookie season with the Patriots. McDaniels has a proven track record of working with young quarterbacks, having previously coached Mac Jones to his best season in the NFL in 2021.
McDaniels’ Impact on the Patriots’ Offense
McDaniels’ return to New England is expected to have a significant impact on the Patriots’ offense. He is known for his innovative play-calling and ability to adapt his schemes to the strengths of his players.
With Maye at quarterback, McDaniels will have a talented young signal-caller to work with. Maye has shown good arm strength, mobility, and decision-making skills. Under McDaniels’ tutelage, Maye could develop into one of the top quarterbacks in the NFL.
In addition to Maye, McDaniels will have a number of other weapons to work with on offense, including running backs Rhamondre Stevenson and Damien Harris, wide receivers Jakobi Meyers and Kendrick Bourne, and tight end Hunter Henry.
With McDaniels calling the plays, the Patriots’ offense is expected to be one of the most productive in the NFL. He has a proven track record of success, and he will be working with a talented group of players.
Super Bowl Hopes Renewed
The Patriots have not won a Super Bowl since 2019, but McDaniels’ return has given fans renewed hope that the team can contend for a championship again. With McDaniels and Brady at the helm, the Patriots were one of the most dominant teams in the NFL.
While Brady is no longer with the team, McDaniels has shown that he can be successful with other quarterbacks. He will be looking to do the same with Maye, and if he can, the Patriots could be a legitimate Super Bowl contender in the years to come.
Conclusion
Josh McDaniels’ return to New England is a significant development for the Patriots. He is one of the most respected offensive coordinators in the NFL, and he has a proven track record of success. With McDaniels calling the plays, the Patriots’ offense is expected to be one of the most productive in the league. This could lead to a resurgence for the Patriots, who have not won a Super Bowl since 2019.
