How new Patriots QBs coach transitioned to New England
FOXBORO — Ashton Grant wanted a play to remain.
The 29-year-old assistant had simply agreed to change into the Patriots’ new quarterbacks coach final January, after working with Mike Vrabel in Cleveland over a number of months. Throughout Vrabel’s temporary time as a Browns guide, Grant helped train him the offense so Vrabel might ultimately assist coach the crew’s offensive line and tight ends.
Quickly sufficient, the person who taught Grant got here to his rescue.
Ex-Browns and Patriots offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt hosted Grant at his home throughout Grant’s first week in New England. The 2 labored collectively in Cleveland from 2020-23, earlier than Van Pelt left to work below ex-Patriots coach Jerod Mayo. Grant stated he spoke with Van Pelt and his predecessor, T.C. McCartney, about younger Patriots quarterback Drake Maye.
A Connecticut native, Grant added Thursday he’s grateful for his former colleagues and the brand new job that’s introduced him nearer to residence.
“I’ve been tremendous in tune with what the Patriots have been doing my complete childhood, simply rising up on this space. And (now), form of setting the muse of what a dynasty appears to be like like, (is) what we wish to get again to,” Grant stated. “So, I’m tremendous entrenched in that.”
Since arriving in Foxboro, Grant stated he’s been “tied on the hip” with Van Pelt’s successor, the newly returned Josh McDaniels. The 2 have by no means labored collectively earlier than, identical to the remainder of the Pats’ offensive assistants.
“We go to Dunkin Donuts day-after-day at like 12:30 and we simply speak extra soccer,” Grant stated. “It’s simply an opportunity for me to get him 1-on-1 and decide his mind somewhat bit. It’s been superior simply to have the ability to decide his mind and get in lock step with one another so as to have the ability to converse the identical language.”
Collectively, they are going to be liable for furthering Drake Maye’s improvement as a franchise quarterback. Grant stated the crew plans to show Maye the identical footwork he discovered final 12 months below Van Pelt, a significant space of focus throughout his rookie season. Gamers and coaches can start working collectively on Monday, April 7, the beginning of the Patriots’ voluntary offseason program.
“When it comes to the expertise, I believe (Maye) can do every thing that you really want out of the quarterback place,” Grant stated. “And I’ve had a pair conversations with him, simply attempting to get to know him. And he appears to be a brilliant good child, however I’m excited to get him again on Monday.”
