Patriots Next Head Coach: Mike Vrabel, Ben Johnson Have Best Odds To Be Hired

DThe New England Patriots announced the dismissal of first-year head coach Jerod Mayo following a dismal 2024 season. The decision comes after mounting frustration within the organization, highlighted by Jonathan Kraft’s public criticism of the team’s playcalling. This move signals the start of a search for new leadership to restore the Patriots’ competitiveness. With the head coaching position officially vacant, several high-profile candidates have emerged as potential successors. Here, we take a look at the top contenders to be the next New England Patriots head coach alongside their odds.

The Krafts after the 2nd & 11 RB draw.

RKK questions the play calling.

JK: “The play calling is horrible.” #Patriots pic.twitter.com/O0kyuRMpMq

— Nick Cattles (@NickCRadio) December 15, 2024

Here are the top contenders to become next Pats head coach and their odds with estimated probabilities:

Odds for the Next Patriots Head Coach

1. Mike Vrabel (-300) – 75.0%
2. Ben Johnson (+400) – 20.0%
3. Bobby Slowik (+700) – 12.5%
4. Josh McDaniels (+1000) – 9.1%
5. Brian Flores (+1200) – 7.7%

Mike Vrabel: Odds-On Favorite (1/3, 75%)

Mike Vrabel, a former Patriots linebacker and a New England fan favorite, is widely considered the top candidate. Vrabel recently parted ways with the Tennessee Titans after a successful stint as their head coach, where he developed a reputation for defensive toughness and leadership. His familiarity with the Patriots’ culture and strong ties to the Kraft family make him a natural fit.

Vrabel’s experience as a head coach and his ability to connect with players would address some of the leadership gaps evident this season. Bringing him back to Foxborough would also generate goodwill among fans eager to see a return to the franchise’s hard-nosed identity.

Ben Johnson: The Innovative Choice (4/1, 20%)

Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson has emerged as one of the NFL’s brightest offensive minds. His ability to design creative game plans and maximize talent has helped the Lions become one of the league’s most dynamic offenses.

The Patriots’ offensive struggles this year, particularly under rookie quarterback Drake Maye, highlight the need for a coach who can rejuvenate the attack. Johnson’s expertise in modern offensive schemes makes him an appealing candidate to revamp the Patriots’ approach.

Bobby Slowik: The Rising Star (7/1, 12.5%)

Bobby Slowik, the offensive coordinator for the Houston Texans, has quickly built a reputation as an up-and-coming talent. His work developing C.J. Stroud into a standout rookie quarterback has turned heads around the league.

Given the Patriots’ focus on building around Maye, Slowik’s track record in mentoring young quarterbacks makes him an intriguing option. His forward-thinking offensive strategies could provide the spark the Patriots desperately need.

Josh McDaniels: The Familiar Face (10/1, 9.1%)

Josh McDaniels, the former Patriots offensive coordinator, is currently out of a job after his brief tenure with the Las Vegas Raiders. Rumors suggest McDaniels could join Bill Belichick, now at the University of North Carolina, but his connection to the Patriots keeps him in the mix.

McDaniels’ familiarity with the organization and history of success with the Pats make him a safer, if less exciting, choice. However, questions about his head coaching record and ability to adapt to today’s NFL linger.

Brian Flores: The Defensive Leader (12/1, 7.7%)

Brian Flores, now the defensive coordinator for the Minnesota Vikings, has prior head coaching experience with the Miami Dolphins and a long tenure with the Patriots under Belichick. His defensive acumen and no-nonsense approach align well with the Patriots’ historical identity.

Flores’ legal battle with the NFL over hiring practices might complicate his candidacy, but his ability to lead and command respect could make him a strong contender.

Commentary

Jerod Mayo’s firing marks the end of a brief and disappointing tenure. With the head coaching search underway, the Patriots have several paths forward. Mike Vrabel stands out as the clear favorite, combining leadership and familiarity with the organization. Ben Johnson and Bobby Slowik offer innovative offensive strategies, while Josh McDaniels and Brian Flores bring familiarity and credibility to the table.

The next coach will inherit a monumental challenge: rebuilding the Patriots into contenders in a rapidly evolving NFL.