The New England Patriots are reportedly eyeing a candidate with strong ties to their most legendary quarterback in search of their next head coach.
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According to Mike Jones of The Athletic, former Tampa Bay Buccaneers offensive coordinator Byron Leftwich is set to interview for the job on Tuesday. Leftwich, 44, served as the Bucs' OC under head coaches Bruce Arians and Todd Bowles from 2019 to 2022, and played a key role in the team's Super Bowl LV victory in 2020.
Despite a string of successful seasons, including top-3 NFL finishes in scoring from 2019-2021, Leftwich's tenure ended on a sour note in 2022. The Bucs' offense struggled, ranking 15th in yards and 25th in points, leading Bowles to make the decision to part ways with Leftwich.
"There's something missing... I really do feel as though something's not there, and I've got to get back to it," Leftwich recently told The Athletic. "I'm really into helping other players. I want to help them to play the best. I love to teach."
While Leftwich hasn't coached in the last two seasons, he has expressed his desire to return to the NFL, recently hiring new representation and indicating he plans to be "aggressive" in seeking coaching opportunities. "Just give me the opportunity. Bring me in and see," he said. "Communicate with me, see if I'm the right type of leader you want."
The former quarterback, selected by Jacksonville with the No. 7 overall pick in the 2003 draft, spent time with the Jaguars, Atlanta Falcons, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers over his playing career, which spanned from 2003 to 2012.
While Leftwich's coaching journey has had its ups and downs, one thing remains clear: he's eager for another chance to prove himself in a leadership role.
The Patriots fired Jerod Mayo after one season earlier this week.
