Patriots owner Robert Kraft announced coach Jerod Mayo will not return for the 2025 season.

In a statement released less than two hours after Sunday’s season finale versus Buffalo, Kraft explained his decision to fire Mayo after his first and only season as head coach.

The complete statement is below.

“After the game today, I informed Jerod Mayo that he will not be returning as the head coach of the New England Patriots in 2025.

“For me, personally, this was one of the hardest decisions I have ever made. I have known Jerod for 17 years. He earned my respect and admiration as a rookie in 2008 and throughout his career for his play on the field, his leadership in the locker room and the way he conducted himself in our community. When he joined our coaching staff, his leadership was even more evident, as I saw how the players responded to him. When other teams started requesting to interview him, I feared I would lose him and committed to making him our next head coach. Winning our season-opener on the road at Cincinnati only strengthened my convictions.

“Unfortunately, the trajectory of our team’s performances throughout the season did not ascend as I had hoped. Since buying the team, I have always considered myself and my family as custodians of a public asset. We have tremendous fans who expect and deserve a better product than we have delivered in recent years. I apologize for that. I have given much thought and consideration as to what actions I can take to expedite our return to championship contention and determined this move was the best option at this time.”

Related Articles

Patriots fire coach Jerod Mayo after one season

Patriots lose No. 1 overall pick by beating Bills: Takeaways from 23-16 win

Patriots sit Drake Maye for rookie QB Joe Milton III after one series vs. Bills

Patriots ‘leaning out’ on keeping head coach Jerod Mayo?

Patriots-Bills inactives: Drake Maye, Joe Milton III active, Hunter Henry out

“I am grateful for Jerod’s many contributions to the New England Patriots throughout his career and will always be rooting for his success. I appreciate all his hard work and hope the experiences gained will help him in the future, as I still believe he will be a successful head coach in this league. I wish Jerod and his family nothing but success in the future.” 

The Patriots will conduct locker-room clean-out and exit interviews with players on Monday. The future of Mayo’s coaching staff and the front office under executive vice president of player personnel Eliot Wolf is unknown.