O’Connell put in good word
INDIANAPOLIS — The 2008 Patriots didn’t make the postseason, but that roster produced more than its fair share of college and NFL coaches.
Minnesota’s Kevin O’Connell is one of three members of that team that became NFL head coaches, joining Jerod Mayo in New England and Mike Vrabel, late of Tennessee. Others went on to work as NFL and college assistants, including Kevin Faulk, Wes Welker, and Larry Izzo.
Mayo and O’Connell were rookies on that team; Mayo was taken in the first round (10th overall), and O’Connell was drafted in the third round (94th overall). O’Connell said Tuesday that another member of the 2008 draft class now should be part of the coaching conversation.
“I think we can start the head coach watch for Matthew Slater now as well,” O’Connell said with a smile at the combine.
“I’ve always told [Mayo and Slater] that my hope was to race them into coaching, to get out in front of them as far as I could, because, as much superior as they were to me as players, they’re probably going to do the same in this capacity as well. Those guys are unbelievable.”
A fan of Van Pelt
Titans coach Brian Callahan left no doubt how he feels about new Patriots offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt, calling him “unbelievable” and lauding his people skills.
“Really, really sharp,” said Callahan, who worked with Van Pelt in Cincinnati as offensive coordinator when Van Pelt was the quarterbacks coach. “A great feel for offensive football.
“What you love about Alex is that he has a great personality, and he’s outstanding when it comes to building relationships with coaches and players. Players love playing for him, being around him. I think he’s a great coach, personally. I really enjoyed my year with him.
“Really, really, a top-notch person and coach.”
Interview lineup
On Wednesday, a handful of coaches and GMs will speak with the media, including former Patriots personnel chief Nick Caserio, now the Texans general manager. In addition, there are media sessions with the defensive linemen and linebackers. On Thursday, defensive backs and tight ends will meet with reporters, and Friday will bring media sessions with the quarterbacks, wide receivers, and running backs . . . On the latest episode of the Adam Schefter Podcast, Drake Maye was asked about the possibility of playing in New England. “New England, I mean, it’s hard not to talk about The Dynasty, you know?” he said. “You think of the GOAT. That’s what you think of when you think of New England, you think of the GOAT. Tom Brady. A place that’s had a lot of success and had some years lately that they haven’t been as successful and looking to get back on track.”