Days after he stunned the NFL world by turning down the Indianapolis Colts head-coaching job to stay as offensive coordinator of the New England Patriots, Josh McDaniels finally spoke about his controversial decision with former Patriot Willie McGinest. McGinest told NFL Network that he spoke with McDaniels recently after his decision to remain as Patriots’ offensive coordinator. McGinest said the Patriots did not give McDaniels any assurance that he’ll be the team’s head coach once Bill Belichick retires. McGinest said there is “absolutely not” any type of guarantee that McDaniels will be the heir apparent to Belichick.

In addition, McGinest said there was no “handshake deal” between McDaniels and Patriots owner Robert Kraft. McDaniels explained to McGinest that the decision was simply about his preference to stay in New England with people he trusts, including Belichick and Kraft. According to McGinest, McDaniels wanted stability and New England is the best place for him to have it.

Patriots sweeten McDaniels deal

Earlier, the Colts announced that they hired McDaniels as head coach, replacing Chuck Pagano. Hours later, McDaniels announced his decision to remain with the Patriots. Adam Schefter of ESPN reported that the Patriots agreed to sweeten McDaniels’ contract, while Mike Reiss of ESPN revealed that Belichick promised to take McDaniels under his wing and show him how he deals with important coaching decisions, including roster building and managing the salary cap.

Another big factor for McDaniels in his decision to stay with the Patriots is the organization’s commitment to take care of his children’s education. Earlier, it was reported that McDaniels was not comfortable with the idea of uprooting his family and relocating them to Indianapolis.

Move intended to keep Brady happy?

According to Ryan Hannable of WEEI.com, the Patriots’ move to keep McDaniels was intended to make quarterback Tom Brady happy.

There were reports that Belichick and Brady were not communicating at the same level they have been in the past, since the situation involving the quarterback’s trainer and close friend Alex Guerrero surfaced. Earlier, Belichick stripped Guerrero of some team privileges, including joining team flights and staying on sidelines during games.

The situation was compounded by the benching of cornerback Malcolm Butler in their 41-33 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl LII. When Butler defended himself on his Twitter account from unfounded reports on his benching, Brady was among several Patriots who liked his post. Brady also commented with "Love you Malcolm. You are an incredible player and teammate and friend. Always!!!!!”
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