Ex-Patriots OC makes feelings clear on Josh McDaniels' potential future in New England during Mike Vrabel era

Former New England Patriots coach Bill O'Brien delivered a glowing endorsement of Josh McDaniels. This comes as the speculation grows about McDaniels' potential return to New England under Mike Vrabel.

The key figures in this developing story include O'Brien, who worked alongside McDaniels at New England, Vrabel, recently hired as Patriots coach and McDaniels, the former Patriots offensive coordinator who last coached for the Las Vegas Raiders.

On Thursday, O'Brien shared his thoughts during an appearance on "The Greg Hill Show." He offered personal insights from his time working with McDaniels in New England.

"Josh McDaniels is one of the best coaches," O'Brien said. "I'm very biased, Greg, because when I went to the Patriots, I worked for Josh and Dante for a full season. I learned so much about football from Josh. I just think that Josh is a great football coach."

The timing of O'Brien's praise aligns with Vrabel's ongoing search for an offensive coordinator. During his introductory press conference at Gillette Stadium on Tuesday, Vrabel confirmed McDaniels is on his "long list" of coordinator candidates.

Josh McDaniels knows how to develop players

NFL: New England Patriots at Las Vegas Raiders - Source: Imagn

New England Patriots legend Rob Gronkowski strengthened the case for McDaniels' return. "Josh McDaniels has a full grasp of the offense," Gronkowski said on the "Up & Adams" show on Wednesday.

"He knows how to demand respect as an offensive coordinator," Gronkowski said. "He gets the players to listen to him. He draws up wonderful schemes to get his players open."

The endorsements carry extra weight given McDaniels' track record in New England. His Patriots tenure included five Super Bowl appearances between 2004 and 2018, winning four championships. Starting as quarterbacks coach in 2004, he played a crucial role in Tom Brady's development during those championship seasons.

The Patriots face a pivotal decision as they look to develop rookie QB Drake Maye. Gronkowski believes McDaniels holds the key to unlocking Maye's potential.

"Yes, I truly believe he would be the right one for Drake Maye," Gronkowski said. "He dealt with Tom Brady throughout his whole entire career. At the quarterback position that's where he's a masterpiece."

Vrabel is shaping his coaching staff and the Patriots are eyeing their next chapter. McDaniels' deep ties to the franchise and proven success in developing QBs could mark a significant turning point for New England's offense.