New England Patriots coach Jerod Mayo was praised by newly-signed running back Antonio Gibson, who had plenty of good things to say about the coach’s demeanor when speaking with media members.
“Definitely a different vibe from a head coach, just from the one day I met him … it sounded like he was talking to one of the guys,” said Gibson, per ESPN’s Mike Reiss. “I feel like that’s something that might be a positive thing in the locker room for him to be able to relate and communicate like that, and kind of understanding both sides of it.
“Also, he showed my daughter a helluva time, brought her into the office and treated her with love. I appreciated that, for sure, especially the first time meeting him.”
RB Antonio Gibson on his first meeting with Jerod Mayo: "Definitely a different vibe from a head coach, just from the one day I met him … it sounded like he was talking to one of the guys. I feel like that's something that might be a positive thing in the locker room for him to…
— Mike Reiss (@MikeReiss) March 18, 2024
Gibson recorded 65 carries for 265 yards and a touchdown last season with the Washington Commanders. He split time with Brian Robinson Jr. and was part of a two-pronged attack within the offense.
He will likely fill a similar role with New England in a room headlined by Rhamondre Stevenson. His pass-catching abilities allows him to bring some versatility to the offense. He finished the 2023 season with 48 receptions for 389 yards and two touchdowns.
It remains to be seen what the results on the field will be in a new Patriots offense led by offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt. Nevertheless, it certainly seems as though Mayo is more of a player’s coach than his predecessor.