At that point, New England already had their next head coach in waiting. Patriots owner Robert Kraft had placed language in then-inside linebackers coach Jerod Mayo's contract that allowed the former Patriots linebacker to ascend to head coach without interviewing.

There was some genuine surprise, as many expressed support for Mayo. At the same time, they also seemed to understand the move after a 4-13 season.

Yes, the Patriots roster stinks. But there is a lot to like about the team's situation, from Drake Maye to its abundance of cap space.