Bill Simmons Fires at Robert Kraft & Jerod Mayo Over ‘Super-Cheap’ Attitude Despite $36 Million Cap Space

Some things in sports are predictable. Like the Patriots drafting Drake Maye at No. 3. But what followed? A season defined by head-scratching decisions and unfulfilled potential. And now? Bill Simmons is the one lighting the internet on fire. Thanks to his scathing critiques!

Bill Simmons hasn’t been the one to hold back. Especially, when it comes to his beloved Boston teams. And this time, his sights are firmly set on the New England Patriots. In a blistering tweet, Simmons declared, “If you take out picking Drake Maye at #3 (which was the most obvious pick possible), the Patriots first offseason of draft picks and free agent signings without Belichick was legitimately an F-minus. Bad draft picks and super-cheap discount spending. You get what you pay for.”

Simmons’ frustration stems from what he views as ‘a gross mismanagement of resources.’ With a $36 million cap cushion, the Patriots had plenty of room to make impactful signings. Instead? They opted for cost-effective moves. And they have, so far, backfired spectacularly! Talk about Antonio Gibson, a former 1,000-yard rusher. The dude has struggled to find his rhythm. Managing only 373 yards and one touchdown in 13 games! Wide receiver K.J. Osborn, signed to bolster the offense, caught just seven passes before being released mid-season.

And then there’s the draft. While Maye has shown glimmers of hope with his athleticism and poise, the rest of the rookie class has been a no-show. Second-round pick Ja’Lynn Polk averages a dismal 7.25 receiving yards per game. Tight end Jaheim Bell has a single yard to his name. Javon Baker? One target all season. Offensive linemen Caedan Wallace and Layden Robinson combined for just eight starts, and quarterback Joe Milton hasn’t played a snap since the preseason.

Meanwhile, the Patriots’ defense, a historical strong suit, hasn’t been immune to the woes. Marcellas Dial, a promising rookie, has managed only six tackles and one forced fumble in his limited snaps. All of this points to what Simmons sees as a glaring failure by the organization to set up its young quarterback for success.

Jerod Mayo’s first year under the microscope

For Jerod Mayo? Stepping into Bill Belichick’s colossal shoes was never going to be easy. But with a 3-10 record and playoff elimination before December, the spotlight on his leadership is as intense as ever. Still, insiders suggest Mayo’s job is secure—for now.

“My main focus has just been really getting the team ready to play this week,” Mayo told reporters when pressed about his future. Yet, his vague response only fueled speculation. Ty Law, a Patriots Hall of Famer, offered his take on WEEI’s Greg Hill Show. “I think Mr. Kraft is a smart enough businessman to give him time. How much time? I don’t know, but he’s definitely secure for next season.”

Mayo’s struggles this season mirror those of his roster. From coachable mistakes to a lack of late-game execution, the Patriots have faltered in nearly every phase. Yet, many argue that the blame shouldn’t rest solely on Mayo’s shoulders. “Is this a talent issue or a coaching issue?” Simmons asked in his critique. Most would say both.

Ty Law provided another perspective, likening Mayo’s first year to a rookie quarterback’s adjustment period. “Sometimes, you have the right guy in place, but it takes time for them to reach their potential,” Law said. Also adding that Kraft needs to “back up the Brinks truck” and invest in top-tier talent.

As the Patriots inch toward the end of a forgettable season, all eyes are on Kraft. Will he give Mayo the tools needed to turn this around? Or will the frugal spending and head-scratching decisions persist? Bill Simmons might be harsh. But he’s rarely wrong! The Patriots’ future now hinges on more than just their rookie QB. With cap space to spare and an offseason to right their wrongs? The ball is firmly in Kraft’s court.