Matt Patricia isn’t the most popular name in Detroit. His time with the Detroit Lions was, well, not great. Not only did he have some terrible seasons in the D, but Patricia was also a disliked coach by many on the team and in the organization. Hey, I don’t know the guy personally. He could be all lilies and daisies for all I know. I’m just reporting on what we know, based on his time with the Lions.
Patricia has been serving as the Patriots’ assistant coach as of late, but it’s pretty obvious he’ll be working somewhere else in 2023. Reports indicate that Patricia is now a highly sought-after coaching free agent. A few weeks ago, he interviewed for the defensive coordinator position with the Denver Broncos. He didn’t get it, but the Broncos are reportedly still interested in him for a different role.
In addition, this week’s NFL Combine disclosed more information about Patricia. “Matt Patricia, who interviewed for the Denver Broncos’ defensive coordinator job that ended up going to Vance Joseph, has spoken with other teams about roles on their defensive coaching staffs,” ESPN’s Dan Graziano said on Sunday. “Patricia’s contract in New England is up, and it feels likely he’ll move on somewhere else after a rough year coaching the offense for the Pats.”
According to Karen Guregian of the Boston Herald, the Philadelphia Eagles are trying to court Patricia. “I’m hearing that Matt Patricia has a shot to land with the Philadelphia Eagles on the defensive staff, presumably as a linebackers coach,” she tweeted.
Honestly, this surprises me. Especially given Patricia’s track record. But, time will tell if the highly talented Eagles actually bring Patricia into the fold.
What makes this even more interesting is that the Eagles currently have cornerback Darius Slay, who played under Patricia in Detroit. Slay has been very critical of Patricia for how he handled his coaching duties in Detroit. Slay is starting the final year of his contract with the Eagles.
Right now, it appears the Eagles and Broncos are the teams coming after Patricia. But, it seems Matt Patricia will somehow, someway once again land on his feet.