Patriots Insider: NE Has Basketball Hoop in Locker Room; HC Mayo 'Changed the Vibe'

The New England Patriots are entering a new era under first-year head coach Jerod Mayo, and things appear to be a lot less buttoned-up than the days under longtime head coach Bill Belichick.

According to The Athletic's Jeff Howe, Mayo has already "changed the vibe around the building." The former Patriots linebacker has installed new amenities that allow the players and coaches to have fun while preparing for the 2024 season.

"There's a basketball hoop in the locker room, and some coaches even have one in their meeting rooms for an added dose of competition," Howe stated. "The cafeteria has turned into a spot where all these new faces are encouraged to hang out and get to know each other better."

The Patriots are coming off a 4-13 finish to the 2023 season, prompting them to mutually part ways with Belichick after his 24-year run at the helm. New England used the No. 3 pick to select quarterback Drake Maye, giving Mayo his franchise QB.

Howe added that Mayo has also brought "a new philosophy" when it comes to team meetings that should make things easier on a rookie signal-caller who is surrounded by other young players.

"Gone are the marathon sessions. Now, the Patriots conduct 25-minute mental sprints before taking five-minute breaks," Howe explained. "It's a way to heighten the pace while giving the coaches and players a quick chance to relax before getting back after it."