Will Josh McDaniels Return as Offensive Coordinator for New England Patriots?

With all the media coverage that has gone into Penn State's intention to hire Patriots' offensive coordinator Bill O'Brien, New England must find his replacement.

While O'Brien will continue as the Patriots' offensive coordinator throughout the 2011-12 playoffs, New England has already gone to work to find his successor. 

NFL.com is reporting that the New England Patriots have asked and been granted permission to speak to former New England offensive coordinator and current St. Louis Rams offensive coordinator, Josh McDaniels. 

McDaniels was an assistant for the Patriots from 2001 through 2008—winning three Super Bowl rings. He was the offensive coordinator for New England from 2006-2008. He led the Patriots offense to a record-setting season in 2007 when New England scored 67 offensive touchdowns. 

He left the Patriots in 2009 to become the head coach of the Denver Broncos, but was fired mid-season in 2010.

McDaniels currently is the St Louis Rams offensive coordinator.

McDaniels' interest level in returning to New England is unknown. However, it makes for a very interesting situation in New England. Many of Belichick's assistants—like Romeo Crennel and Charlie Weis—have left the organization to pursue better opportunities.

It will be interesting to see one of them return to Belichick's staff.

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