FOXBOROUGH, Mass. – The New England Patriots have made significant hires in their coaching staff, bringing in Alex Van Pelt as their new offensive coordinator. This move comes as first-year head coach Jerod Mayo looks to reshape the team’s coaching staff and offensive strategy. Van Pelt, who previously served as the Cleveland Browns’ offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach, brings 29 years of experience in the NFL, including 20 years as an assistant coach.
While in Cleveland, Van Pelt played a role in the Browns’ offensive success, contributing to a unit that scored 408 points in the 2020 season, the second most in team history. His expertise in working with quarterbacks aligns with the Patriots’ goal to improve their offensive performance, especially after tying for last in the NFL last season, averaging only 13.8 points per game.
In addition to hiring Van Pelt, the Patriots also promoted defensive line coach DeMarcus Covington to defensive coordinator and brought in Rams assistant special teams coach Jeremy Springer as their special teams coordinator. These moves demonstrate the team’s commitment to bolstering not only their offensive strategy but also their defensive and special teams units.
The addition of Van Pelt signifies a potential shift to a West Coast-based system for the Patriots, with his extensive experience working with quarterbacks positioning the team for positive changes in their offensive game. The team also has the No. 3 pick in the NFL draft, offering an opportunity to further strengthen their offense by selecting top collegiate talent.
The Patriots’ coaching staff changes, including the addition of Van Pelt, highlight the team’s dedication to revitalizing their performance following a challenging season. The strategic hires and promotions indicate a clear focus on improving all aspects of the team’s game, setting the stage for an exciting transition as they prepare for the upcoming season.