"I’m kind of hurt": Bill Belichick defends Patriots players against Jerod Mayo's 'Soft' criticism with passionate response

The New England Patriots are facing a tumultuous start to their season, and the team's head coach, Jerod Mayo, is not shy about expressing his frustrations. Following a disappointing loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars, Mayo publicly labeled his players as "soft," sparking controversy and debate within the organization. Mayo's comments, however, did not sit well with his predecessor, Bill Belichick. The legendary coach, known for his demanding and often blunt demeanor, took to the airwaves to defend his former players against Mayo's characterization.
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Speaking on ESPN’s The Pat McAfee Show, Belichick defended the Patriots' defense, which had previously led the league in rushing defense. He was quick to remind listeners of the same players who had been praised for their toughness last season but were now being called "soft."
Belichick highlighted the consistency of the Patriots' defensive roster, noting that players like Anfernee Jennings, Jahlani Tavai, Kyle Dugger, Marcus Jones, and Christian Gonzalez had been key figures in the team’s strong defensive performance last year. Belichick said making it clear that these players had proven themselves despite struggles on the offensive side of the ball. He went on to express his disappointment, adding that he felt for the defensive players, who had worked hard to maintain their form.
"Defensively, the Patriots led the league last year in rushing defense. Yards per carry (they were) No. 1 in the league, and this year they're way down in the 20s somewhere," Belichick said.

"It's the same guys. They re-signed (Anfernee) Jennings, they re-signed (Jahlani) Tavai, they re-signed (Kyle) Dugger. Marcus Jones and (Christian) Gonzalez have been healthy all year. They were both on injured reserve at this point last year. You got (Deatrich) Wise, you got (Davon) Godchaux, you got Keion White, you got (Marte) Mapu. It's a lot the same players, and in some cases I would say more.
"I'm kind of hurt for those guys, because to call them soft -- they're not soft. They were the best team in the league last year against the run, and those guys went out and did it even though we couldn't score many points offensively. I feel bad for the defensive players on that one because those guys, that's a tough group. Jon Jones, Godchaux, Wise, Jennings, Uche -- those guys are all tough players. Dugger. They're tough guys."
Belichick also briefly touched on his optimism for the Patriots’ offense, particularly highlighting the potential development of rookie quarterback Will Grier, who has yet to make his mark. Belichick's comments come after weeks of Mayo discussing the talent he inherited from Belichick, indicating a subtle but ongoing conversation between the two coaches regarding the state of the Patriots' roster. While Mayo’s criticism has sparked debate, Belichick's defense of his former players underlines the respect and belief he continues to hold in their abilities.
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