Former Patriots Coach Jerod Mayo Lands New Job Outside Of Football
Just two years ago Jerod Mayo was gearing up for his first season as head coach of the New England Patriots. But after one terrible year in charge, he's now out of football entirely.
According to the New York Post, Mayo has left football to become a managing director at Fifth Down Capital, a private equity firm based in Massachusetts. He has reportedly held the position since February.
On the company's website, Mayo is highlighted as "an active investor and advisor to private companies for over a decade" with a degree in political science from the University of Tennessee.
"Jerod joined Fifth Down as Managing Director. Before Fifth Down, he built a distinguished career with the New England Patriots as both a player and coach," the company website says.
"In parallel with his professional career, Jerod has been an active investor and advisor to private companies for over a decade. He is known for his disciplined leadership style, emphasis on preparation and accountability, and ability to build trust-based relationships. He holds a degree in political science from the University of Tennessee."
From the gridiron to the office desk
Mayo enjoyed a distinguished playing career with the New England Patriots from 2008 to 2015, earning two Pro Bowls and Rookie of the Year honors. He led the league in tackles in 2010 and won a Super Bowl with the Patriots in 2014.
After retiring, Mayo was hired as inside linebackers coach of the Patriots in 2019 and served in the role until Bill Belichick's contentious departure in 2023. Following Belichick's departure, Mayo was named the team's head coach for the 2024 season.
Unfortunately, Mayo took over a team where the cupboard was basically bare. The Patriots went just 4-13 in 2024 and fired Mayo immediately after the season. He did not get any other coaching jobs for the 2025 season.
Meanwhile, the Patriots decided to hire another Super Bowl-winning ex-linebacker - Mike Vrabel - as their head coach in 2025 and promptly went 14-3 and reached the Super Bowl.
Not everyone is cut out for every job, no matter how much experience or passion they have. It's a lesson Mayo has clearly taken to heart.
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This story was originally published May 30, 2026 at 11:55 AM.