Stunning Report Cites Patriots Coordinator To Interview With AFC Team

Patriots defensive coordinator DeMarcus Covington reportedly has gained interest on the coaching market.

The Cincinnati Bengals plan to interview Covington for their defensive coordinator position, according to NFL Media’s Tom Pelissero.

Covington technically is still on New England’s coaching staff, but with the Patriots beginning a head coaching search, Covington reportedly received permission to interview elsewhere.

It’s no surprise Covington is seeking out new opportunities given his standing in Foxboro, Mass., is up to the discretion of the next head coach. But Patriots fans might be surprised to hear a team would be interested in Covington given how New England’s defense performed in 2024.

The Patriots defense noticeably regressed during Jerod Mayo’s first year as head coach and Covington’s first season as defensive coordinator. The tandem was elevated after the firing of defensive mastermind Bill Belichick and departure of defensive assistant Steve Belichick.

Mayo elevated Covington to defensive coordinator after he took over for Belichick, and it was clear neither were ready for their promotions. The Patriots ranked 22nd in points and yards allowed this season, their worst points-per-game metric since 1995.

Covington has worked in New England since 2017, serving as a coaching assistant, outside linebackers coach and defensive line coach (2020-2023) on Bill Belichick’s staff.

It’s fair to point out Covington previously has been mentioned among future head coaching candidates, which portrays how others around the league feel about him. So perhaps Covington will land the job and revitalize his career in Cincinnati, as it feels he’s not long for New England.