New England Patriots head coach Jerod Mayo stirred some controversy when he labeled his team as “soft” following their loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars. Las Vegas Raiders star pass rusher Maxx Crosby addressed Mayo’s comments during a recent podcast appearance, making it clear that he wouldn’t tolerate such remarks from a head coach.
“Sh*t,” Crosby said, as reported by Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk. “Well, sh*t. You know what I mean? He’s a player. So, he’s been around it. He played at the highest level. And, you know, if that’s how he feels, that’s how he feels. But, you know, I can’t speak for him. But, yeah, I would not take it lightly. You know what I mean? I would have a major issue if I was a player, especially another grown man calling you soft. I mean, those are fighting words.”
It remains unclear how the Patriots players reacted to Mayo’s comments. Regardless, it serves as a wake-up call for the team, and it will be interesting to see whether they respond positively or negatively. Crosby pointed out that Mayo is a former player who has spent time in New England, so he understands what it feels like to be in the players’ shoes. As a coach, Mayo must consider how his words might affect team morale, for better or worse.
Crosby also shared his experience with a morale shift last year when the Raiders replaced Josh McDaniels with Antonio Pierce as interim head coach. That change had a significant impact, leading to Pierce being retained for this season, although the Raiders have not fared well so far this year.
How will Patriots respond to Jerod Mayo’s comments?
The Patriots are set to return to the field after spending last week in London. While teams typically enjoy a bye week following an overseas trip, New England chose to forgo that option. They will host a struggling New York Jets team that is eager to regain its footing.
In their last matchup, the Jets defeated the Patriots 24-3, but this time around, Drake Maye will be at the helm. Maye displayed potential in the loss to the Jaguars, but the entire Patriots roster needs to elevate its performance. Hopefully, Mayo’s comments will ignite a sense of urgency, as failing to improve could lead to a further downward spiral for New England this season.
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