Thanks to their defense, the New England Patriots find themselves in the mix for a playoff spot through the first 11 weeks of the 2022 NFL season. A big reason for the unit's success is inside linebackers coach Jerod Mayo.
Mayo, a two-time Pro Bowl linebacker for the Patriots from 2008-15, joined New England's coaching staff in 2019. While he hasn't earned the official title of defensive coordinator, he plays a significant role in running things on that side of the ball.
Mayo's reputation as a leader during his playing career, combined with his coaching success, made him a strong head-coaching candidate in 2021.