New England Patriots wide receiver describes team vibes in post-Bill Belichick era

Bill Belichick had a very specific way of running the New England Patriots. And for two decades, that clearly worked. 

However, with all the struggles in recent years, the team and Belichick decided to mutually part ways, ushering in a new era in New England. So with that, Jerod Mayo was chosen to take over.  

While Mayo both played and coached under Belichick, he has already proven that he has a different way of doing things. And one Patriots wide receiver detailed the biggest change he has noticed regarding the vibes in the room. 

“Guys have been a little bit looser," Tyquan Thornton told reporters on Thursday. "Just showing their personalities a little bit more.” 

Even prior to the end of Belichick's tenure, players were speaking very highly of Mayo. And his energy resonated with many of the players on the defense. So when he was named head coach, people rushed to social media, congratulating the new head coach. 

Part of the big change in the locker room was the addition of a basketball hoop. And you can see that they are responding to this new fun energy in a positive way.