Alabama offensive coordinator Bill O’Brien could be on the move at the conclusion of this season.
In a report by NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport on Saturday, O’Brien was listed as a “strong candidate” to return to Bill Belichick’s staff next season.
Could an old friend be the answer for the #Patriots in 2023? #Bama OC Bill O'Brien is emerging as a potential candidate to return to New England next season.
My story: https://t.co/ToQmaxfJ0j
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 24, 2022
O’Brien has spent two seasons with the Crimson Tide where’s helped the offense reach a national championship game and helped produce the program’s first-ever Heisman Trophy winner at quarterback, Bryce Young.
Despite the accolades, O’Brien has been a controversial figure in the Alabama media and fanbase as the unit appeared to struggle at several points this season.
But with all of the friction O’Brien’s offense has seemingly created in Alabama, it doesn’t quite match the frustration that has mounted in New England with Matt Patricia.
The Patriots offense has been substandard to put it lightly this season as many have criticized Belichick for pairing second-year quarterback Mac Jones with a former defensive coordinator Patricia in his first season on that side of the ball.
Jones has visibly displayed his frustrations at several points this season along with Belichick consistently facing questions about the team’s poor offensive play.
O’Brien is currently set to call the plays for Alabama’s upcoming game against Kansas State in the Sugar Bowl on Dec. 31.
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Patrick Dowd is a Reporter for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can follow him on Twitter, via Pat_Dowd77
