According to published reports, Josh McDaniels is set to return as an offensive assistant immediately, and will eventually replace current coordinator Bill O'Brien, who has taken the head coaching position with Penn State.
Albert Breer of NFL.com reports McDaniels asked St. Louis for his release after head coach Steve Spagnuolo's firing, which opened the door for a potential return to the Pats. McDaniels will replace O'Brien as the Patriots offensive coordinator next season.
I am surprised the St. Louis Rams did not ask for any compensation in return for McDaniels. The Rams were in a position to at least receive something in return, but they decided to move in another direction.
The most interesting detail of ESPN's Adam Schefter's report was that McDaniels would join New England right away. This means when the Pats play their playoff opponent on Jan. 14, McDaniels will be on the staff. While I think he may not be on the sideline - and instead in a coaches box - I believe the move illustrates his relationship with Bill Belichick.
On another interesting note, current Rams wide receiver Brandon Lloyd has publicly said he would follow McDaniels wherever he would go in the off season. Lloyd, who was rumored to the Patriots earlier in the season, could help replenish the receiving core, but nothing is certain.
How do you feel about McDaniels return to New England? Leave a comment below and share your thoughts!
Do you have a Twitter account? Be sure to follow me: @PatriotsHaven!
More News Headlines:
TRANSCRIPT: Mike Vrabel Press Conference 8/1
By: Ian LogueHere's the full transcript of what New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel had to say during his press conference on August 1, 2026:
MORSE: Notes From Patriots Training Camp Practice Day 6
By: Mark MorseAnalyzing Patriots Training Camp Day 6: Drake Maye's strong performance, Kayshon Boutte's emergence, and updates on key position battles and injuries.
TRANSCRIPT: Drake Maye Press Conference 7/31
By: Ian LogueHere's the full transcript of what New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye had to say during his press conference with the media on Friday, July…
MORSE: Notes From Patriots Training Camp Day 5
By: Mark MorsePatriots training camp Day 5 saw pads come on, highlighting WRs like Kyle Williams and AJ Brown, QB play from Drake Maye, and defensive performances.
Vrabel Confirms DeAndre Hopkins’ Patriots Departure
By: Ian LogueVrabel confirms DeAndre Hopkins' brief Patriots coaching stint has ended. The former wide receiver's departure occurred during training camp.