Over the past few weeks, joint practices across the NFL landscape have increasingly become battlegrounds, with scuffles and fights disrupting the rhythm of preseason preparations. In a move to combat this trend, Jerod Mayo, the head coach of the New England Patriots, has instituted a new policy as his team gears up for joint practices with the Philadelphia Eagles.
Under Mayo's new directive, any starter who engages in a fight during joint practices will be forced to play the entire preseason game, while non-starters involved in altercations will be benched entirely for the game. This disciplinary measure aims to simulate the real-game consequences of fighting, where players can face fines or ejections, thus ensuring that training remains productive and unmarred by unnecessary altercations.
Mayo’s Message
"My message to the players: if you get in a fight out here, if you're a starter, you're going to play the whole preseason game. If you're not a starter, you won't play at all. That's kind of my mindset with that," Mayo stated, underscoring his firm stance on maintaining discipline during these crucial preparation periods.
As a former player who enjoyed the change of pace that joint practices offered, Mayo understands the benefits of these sessions. "It really helps you build that camaraderie amongst the group because out here, when you're going against each other, it gets a little stale sometimes. It's always good to go against another team," he explained. This perspective is rooted in his own experience, having spent eight seasons as a Patriots player before transitioning into coaching.
Immediate Test
The Patriots and Eagles will test Mayo's new rule when they practice together on Tuesday, followed by a game at Gillette Stadium on Thursday as part of Week 2 of the preseason. The joint practice will take place in the August heat, adding another layer of challenge for players from both teams striving to secure their spots on the roster. This setup will not only test the players’ physical endurance but also their ability to adhere to Mayo's directive under potentially tense conditions.
"Look, you don't fight in a real game. If you fight in a real game, you get fined; you get kicked out. It's the same thing here," Mayo emphasized, making it clear that he expects professionalism and self-control from his players, mirroring the standards of regular season play.
Building Team Dynamics
Mayo’s rule serves a dual purpose: it deters unnecessary conflicts and also simulates the high-stakes environment of regular-season games. By ensuring that training maintains its focus on skill development and teamwork, Mayo aims to build a cohesive and disciplined squad ready to tackle the challenges of the upcoming season.
Despite the stringent new rule, Mayo's respect for the value of joint practices is evident. They provide an opportunity to break the monotony of training camp and foster team unity. As Mayo noted, practicing against another team brings fresh competition and a renewed sense of focus, essential for fostering camaraderie and keeping players engaged.
The impending game against the Eagles will be a significant indicator of how effective Mayo’s new rule is in curbing fights and maintaining discipline. It is also a critical juncture for players, particularly those on the bubble, to make a strong impression and secure their place on the final roster.
With a clear message sent and stakes set high, the Patriots enter this week with a unique blend of discipline and opportunity. The effectiveness of Mayo's approach will soon be tested on the field, as his players navigate the balance between competitive intensity and controlled aggression, all under the watchful eye of their coach.