Josh McDaniels could return to Patriots, if Bill Belichick sits out 2024

Josh McDaniels could be a candidate to return to New England

Former New England Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels could return to New England, if one particular scenario happens.

With Bill Belichick missing out on the head-coaching opportunity for the Atlanta Falcons, there are only two job openings left with the Seattle Seahawks and Washington Commanders. McDaniels could follow him to either one, but as of right now, neither destination appears to be a realistic option.

So if Belichick doesn’t get hired and decides to sit out the 2024 season, McDaniels could end up being at the top of the list for the Patriots’ offensive coordinator position.

The Athletic’s Jeff Howe mentioned the possibility during an appearance on Andrew Callahan’s “Pats Interference Podcast.”

“If Belichick gets the Falcons job, I think there’s a very strong chance he brings (Josh) McDaniels with him,” Howe told Callahan, as transcribed by NESN.com’s Dakota Randall. “If Belichick doesn’t get the Falcons job, McDaniels probably jumps to the top of the list for the Patriots.”

McDaniels served as the Patriots’ offensive coordinator from 2006-2008 and again from 2012-2021. He also served in the role of quarterbacks coach with the Patriots for multiple seasons.

With the Falcons hiring Los Angeles Rams defensive coordinator Raheem Morris as their new head coach, there’s a strong likelihood that Belichick could get left out in the cold this go-around.

That could pave the way for a Patriots reunion with McDaniels.

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