It’s starting to look like Bill O’Brien will be the Patriots’ next offensive coordinator.
O’Brien was already being discussed as a likely successor to Matt Patricia before the end of the New England season. And while some reports have cast doubt on the possibility of O’Brien leaving Alabama to rejoin the Patriots, he remains the clear favorite to lead the Patriots offense in 2023.
On Monday afternoon, NBC Sports Boston’s Tom E. Curran provided what may be the most definitive report to tie O’Brien to the Patriots to date. He also cleared up some potential roadblocks, pointing out that Bill Belichick and Robert Kraft are on the same page.
Here is an excerpt:
The primary target is former Patriots OC, former Penn State and Texans head coach, former Alabama OC Bill O’Brien. There is a consensus on all sides that O’Brien is the best person for the job and – although there are other deserving candidates – the familiarity of Property and Mac Jones with O’Brien and O’Brien’s willingness to return mean that it is it would be a surprise if he doesn’t get the job.
A tender aspect of O’Brien’s return is what happens to Judge and Patricia. Are you still part of the offensive coaching staff? How will they cope with O’Brien if they aren’t reassigned to new roles? O’Brien trained alongside Patricia during his time here. He certainly has a relationship with Judge. Undoubtedly, there is some friendship, so it needs to be addressed diplomatically so that there are no uncomfortable feelings.
Don’t be surprised if things really heat up on the Patriots-O’Brien front in the coming days.