New England Patriots defensive end Keion White didn’t hold back after the team’s 40-7 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers on Saturday.
The defeat dropped the Patriots to a dismal 3-13 record and highlighted issues on both sides of the ball. The Chargers outgained New England 428-181 and controlled the clock, dominating time of possession.
In his postgame comments, White expressed frustration and called for action.
“If changes aren’t made, then what are we doing? The NFL is a production-based business. If we’re not making changes to improve our results, which are losses, then what’s the point?” White stated.
While he avoided directly criticizing the coaching staff, many interpreted his remarks as a veiled reference to them. When pressed on what changes he hoped to see, White responded,
“That’s not my decision. First and foremost, I’m focusing on changing myself and how I approach the game.”
White’s comments come on the heels of an earlier interview that raised questions about his future with the team.
“I’m just trying to get through these next two games, and then I’ll figure things out and see what the future holds,” said White, who currently shares the team lead in sacks with five. If White’s frustrations are indeed aimed at the coaching staff, he may be disappointed.
According to NFL Network, the Patriots are expected to retain first-year head coach Jerod Mayo despite the team’s struggles.
“Patriots owner Robert Kraft has spent years grooming Mayo as Bill Belichick’s successor, even including it in Mayo’s contract,” reported Tom Pelissero and Ian Rapoport. “Unless something catastrophic happens in the final two games, Kraft is likely to give Mayo another year to prove himself.”
What constitutes a “catastrophe” remains unclear. The Patriots’ lackluster performance against the Chargers adds pressure as they prepare to finish the season against the Buffalo Bills.
