FOXBORO — Over the last two days, it’s become apparent that it’s an entirely new era in New England.
Two straight days, Patriots players have spoken openly about contract disputes, and Mayo has been open to discuss the negotiating process in his meetings with reporters.
Former Patriots head coach Bill Belichick would not speak to the media about contracts.
Outside linebacker Matthew Judon was first to speak about his contract on Thursday, saying he would be willing to play on his current deal but ultimately doesn’t want to. Defensive tackle Davon Godchaux discussed his deal on Friday, saying he wants guaranteed money and to be paid more like Colts defensive tackle Grover Stewart or Browns nose tackle Dalvin Tomlinson.
“Look, I’m good with it,” Mayo said Friday about players speaking out. “I don’t want to put a cap on it. If the guy feels a certain type of way, he has that privilege to come out here and tell you guys how he feels. I have to respect it no matter what. At some point in time, there’s going to be a player that comes up here and says, ‘You know what, I hate Coach Jerod’ or, ‘I hate Mayo.’ That’s how they feel, and I respect that. I know we want to keep as much stuff in-house, but there will be times they come out here and express themselves. I think it’s good.
“Look, they listen to the interview here and I listen to their interviews as well. I’m not talking to you guys, I’m talking to the players, really. That’s how I think about it. As the season continues to progress, I want the relationship with the media from the coach’s perspective and also from the player’s perspective, to be a good relationship. I’m not saying to write all the positive articles. You write your opinion, that’s what you’re paid for.”
Mayo said the Patriots are still working through Judon’s contract and called the outside linebacker “a huge piece of the puzzle.” He doesn’t view Judon as being “disgruntled.”
“I would say he’s out here working every day. His attitude is great in the classroom, his attitude is great on the field. You guys see him flying around here,” Mayo said. “Obviously, there is a business component to this sport, and he understands that. We want him here, he’s a very good player for us. He does everything we want him to do, so hopefully it works out.”
The Patriots rewarded safety Jabrill Peppers with a contract extension on Friday. The Patriots had already agreed to new deals with center David Andrews, running back Rhamondre Stevenson, linebacker Jahlani Tavai and defensive tackle Christian Barmore since free agency.