FOXBOROUGH – Featured on a 10-minute mic’d up segment from Sunday’s Patriots win, Josh McDaniels had plenty of reasons to smile.
The longtime offensive coordinator could be seen jumping up and celebrating with receivers coach Todd Downing, and in an overall joyous mood as his offense exploded for 21 points in the third quarter.
For McDaniels, there’s been plenty of reasons to smile this season. His return to New England coincides with Drake Maye elevating his game and the Patriots back to their winning ways.
On Thursday, McDaniels said he’s enjoying being around this team, Mike Vrabel, and the weekly process up to each game.
“I love this. I love football. I love coaching here, working for Vrabes,” McDaniels said. “I learn something every day, every week, which is cool for me. To watch that whole process and the way he’s spearheaded the vision he has for our team, and our staff has been great. And just this group of players. They come to work every day with a great approach and a great attitude. It makes your job fun.”
The Patriots head into this week ranked eighth in the NFL in scoring (26.6 points per game). That’s a stark departure from the unfortunate norm since McDaniels left New England after 2021.
Last season, the Patriots finished 30th in scoring (17.0). In 2023, they tied for last in the NFL, averaging 13.9 points per week. The Patriots were also 25th in scoring (21.4) in 2022.
During the mic’d up video, McDaniels was seen talking to Kayshon Boutte on the sideline, saying he appreciated his “patience.” The receiver went on to catch three passes for 75 yards, including a 39-yard touchdown pass.
Boutte said that McDaniels’ expertise leads to confidence.
“I think it’s cool. He’s always one step ahead when it comes to anything,” Boutte said. “Even on Sundays, we have a good understanding of what they’re going to run on certain downs and distances. It’s always an advantage for us. I think he does a tremendous job of putting us in situations to be great.”
McDaniels admitted that he needed to learn how to have fun. When he was younger, he lived and died by whether his team won or lost.
After being let go by the Las Vegas Raiders in 2023 and taking last season off, McDaniels returned to the place where he won six Super Bowl championships. He knows how fun it can be to win, but said he’s also learned to appreciate other things along the journey.
“Winning is fun, but I think you’ve got to have an opportunity to enjoy the process regardless of the outcome,” McDaniels said. “If you don’t do that, it’s kind of hard. I think I’ve learned over time that I have to do that more often and not just tie it necessary to the outcome of the game. Just trying to enjoy the guys. We have a lot of fun in practice and the meetings, walkthrough, and hopefully on Sunday.”
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