New England Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels is getting ready for his team's AFC Divisional Round playoff game against the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday, but he was busy over the weekend interviewing with the Green Bay Packers for their open head coach job.
The Patriots are "preparing" for McDaniels' exit after the season, ProFootballTalk's Mike Florio reported Sunday, and he mentioned former Texas Tech coach Kliff Kingsbury as a potential replacement for McDaniels if he takes his talents elsewhere.
Tom Brady was asked about Kingsbury during his weekly Monday radio interview on WEEI's "Mut and Callahan," and the Patriots quarterback had nothing but good things to say about him.
“With Kliff, I played with Kliff and we have been friends ever since," Brady said. "I see him from time to time. Danny (Amendola) keeps in touch with him. He’s been a friend of mine for a long time. Kliff has done a great job at Texas Tech, and I know he’s at USC, but it doesn’t surprise me that a lot of teams are interested. He’s just a great football mind and will be successful wherever he’s at.”
Kingsbury is the offensive coordinator for USC, but Florio noted that won't stop him from considering NFL jobs. Kingsbury was fired by Texas Tech in November after a disappointing season, but he's considered one of the best offensive minds in coaching. His Red Raiders offenses scored a ton of points and put up amazing stats, and one quarterback he helped develop could win the NFL MVP this season. That quarterback is Kansas City Chiefs star Patrick Mahomes.
Kingsbury was drafted by the Patriots as a sixth-rounder in 2003, and judging by Brady's comments to WEEI, it sounds like they already have a good relationship. The 39-year-old coach certainly wouldn't be a bad option for the Patriots if McDaniels left. And from Kingsbury's perspective, why would he turn down a chance to work with Brady if the opportunity presented itself?
Click here to download the new MyTeams App by NBC Sports! Receive comprehensive coverage of your teams and stream the Celtics easily on your device.
New England Patriots
NBC SPORTS BOSTON SCHEDULE