New England Patriots defensive coordinator Matt Patricia is likely to become the next coach of the Detroit Lions, instead of the New York Giants, according to ESPN. The 43-year old DC is still pursuing another Super Bowl ring with the Pats but it is expected he'll work out his contract agreement with the Lions once the season officially ends.
Patricia was originally linked to the Giants but it is believed that his deal with the Lions is now a sure thing. The two parties just have to wait to make it official because the NFL rule states: "No contract shall be executed, and no agreement to execute a contract, or an announcement of a contract, or of an agreement for employment, shall be permitted until after the conclusion of the employer club's playing season."
According to ESPN, the Lions publicly announced interviews with six candidates for the job including Matt Patricia, Houston defensive coordinator Mike Vrabel, Green Bay associate head coach Winston Moss, Minnesota offensive coordinator Pat Shurmur, now-former Lions defensive coordinator Teryl Austin and Lions offensive coordinator Jim Bob Cooter.
Since Patricia took over as defensive coordinator in 2012, the Patriots have gone 75-21.
In addition to losing Patricia in the upcoming off-season, the Patriots will also likely lose offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels, who is reportedly a finalist for head coaching jobs with the Titans, Colts and Giants.
However, both men still have work to be done in New England. The defending champs will host the Jacksonville Jaguars in the AFC Championship Game on Sunday, January 21st at 3:05pm ET.