Just a hypothetical... if you had a guarantee that the Pats would win the SB in 2013, would it be worth it? Or is this a case where the principle is more important?
It is obvious that if the Pats would ever consider bringing in a guy to fix the defense, Mangini is the right guy strictly from a professional standpoint. I think it's clear as day now that he was the mastermind behind the Jets talent evaluation, drafting Darelle Revis, along with late round role players like Coleman, Lowery, and E Smith. The guy can evaluate and coach talent on defense, particularly in the secondary.
For the record, I would say yes for the hypothetical, but no in reality, as obviously there is no guarantee. While I hate what Mangini did with Spygate, I honestly do not think he had any idea of the media storm that would ensue. I believe he just got caught up in the moment of competition, thought he would 1-up Belichick, and was as shocked as everyone else about the ensuing witch hunt, ridiculous allegations, and zoo-like atmosphere of Patriot haters and conspiracy theorists that emerged from the sewers. Still, I don't think it would be worth bringing back Mangini because of the humiliation he brought to the franchise.