Josh McDaniels’ tenure as Indianapolis Colts head coach is over after less than nine hours. McDaniels had a change of heart on Tuesday, and will remain with the New England Patriots.
The Colts released a statement confirming the news, via Zak Keefer of the Indianapolis Star:
“After agreeing to contract terms to become the Indianapolis Colts’ new head coach, New England assistant coach Josh McDaniels this evening informed us that he would not be joining our team. Although we are surprised and disappointed, we will resume our head coaching search immediately and find the right fit to lead our team and organization on and off the field.”
ESPN’s Adam Schefter first reported the news.
The Colts announced the Patriots offensive coordinator as their coach earlier Tuesday and said a press conference was scheduled for Wednesday.
Schefter and Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reported the Patriots sweetened McDaniels’ contract and that his family also played a factor in him staying in New England. The 41-year-old Ohio native has previously cited his family as a reason for remaining with the Patriots, and the team also reportedly clarified that Belichick would return for the 2018 season, per Reiss.
Assurances regarding the future of New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick helped Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels decide to turn down the Indianapolis Colts’ offer to be their head coach, ESPN.com’s Mike Reiss reported Tuesday.
Benjamin Allbright of 104.7 in Denver also reported McDaniels has received a commitment from the Patriots he’ll succeed Belichick when the legendary head coach steps down.
