Jerod Mayo had a blunt response to the Patriots’ failed pursuit of WR Brandon Aiyuk.
The New England Patriots were among a few teams actively pursuing a trade for disgruntled San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk, but after the Patriots and 49ers reached an agreement last week, Aiyuk made it clear that he had no interest in moving to New England, despite a rumored contract worth more than $30 million per year.
The Patriots wanted Aiyuk badly, but he didn’t want to play for the famous franchise at this point in his career.
When asked about Aiyuk’s rejection to be traded to New England, new Patriots head coach Jerod Mayo was forthright in his response.
“When we start winning games, players will want to come here. Guys will be enthusiastic once we establish the culture and roster,” Mayo told Alex Barth of Boston’s 98.5 “The Sports Hub.”
The Patriots are coming off two consecutive losing seasons, including a 4-13 record last year, the franchise’s lowest win total since 2-14 in 1992. The disappointing season prompted the Patriots and iconic coach Bill Belichick to part ways at the end of the year.
