Sean McVay confirmed Thursday a new addition to the Patriots staff.
New England reportedly hired John "Stretch" Streicher, who was Mike Vrabel's right-hand man while with the Tennesee Titans. Streicher hasn't been officially hired, but McVay confirmed that the Los Angeles Rams' game management coordinator would be leaving after LA's divisional round loss.
He admitted to reporters that Streicher's departure "broke his heart," per The Athletic's Jourdan Rodrigue. Streicher is largely credited for McVay's improved situational and game management.
He'll bring that expertise to the Patriots. Vrabel previously referred to Streicher as his "personal assistant," who helped with game management including replays, timeouts and clock management. Streicher is viewed as Vrabel's version of Bill Belichick's Ernie Adams, a trusted and knowledgeable do-it-all voice in the coaching booth.
Jerod Mayo struggled with game management and situational awareness in his first season as New England head coach. The addition of Streicher should help the Patriots improve on that front next season as Vrabel continues to build out his staff.