Patriots Reportedly Interviewed Franchise Legend Before Controversial Hire

The Patriots had a chance to bring a franchise legend back to Foxboro, Mass., but instead chose to bring in a different familiar face.

New England hired Todd Downing as wide receivers coach despite a lack of experience in the role. The longtime assistant worked on Mike Vrabel’s staff on the Tennessee Titans, but Josh McDaniels reportedly was the one who pushed for the 44-year-old’s hire.

The Patriots reportedly considered bringing in Wes Welker for the role, which would have been a solid fit after the retired wide receiver was let go by the Miami Dolphins. According to MassLive on Friday, New England interviewed the former All-Pro before hiring Downing. Vrabel and McDaniels reportedly valued the former Titans offensive coordinators’ play-calling experience.

Ultimately, Downing’s hire might not make or break the staff. Vrabel and McDaniels will be the ones calling the shots on offense, but it still doesn’t mean there weren’t valid questions around Downing’s hiring. Though, it seems like only those outside of One Patriot Place were the ones with those questions.