Josh McDaniels was hesitating for a reason.
The newly announced Colts head coach withdrew from the position hours later Tuesday, ESPN reported, choosing instead to remain with the Patriots as their offensive coordinator.
McDaniels had been formally announced as the Colts’ coach Tuesday morning. The Colts not only confirmed McDaniels’ addition on social media, they announced an introductory press conference to be held at 5 p.m. ET on Wednesday.
McDaniels’ move to Indianapolis following Super Bowl LII, which had been speculated for weeks, suddenly seemed in doubt when reports surfaced Sunday night that he was considering staying with the Patriots. He refused to comment on the Colts’ offer after the Patriots’ 41-33 loss to the Eagles.
Patriots owner Robert Kraft reportedly had a hand in convincing McDaniels to return, offering to increase McDaniels’ salary if he turned down the Colts, according to ESPN.
The Colts expressed shock and disappointment in McDaniels’ decision.
“After agreeing to contract terms to become the Indianapolis Colts’ new head coach, New England Patriots assistant coach Josh McDaniels this evening informed us that he would not be joining our team,” the team said in a statement. “Although we are surprised and disappointed, we will resume our head coaching search immediately and find the right fit to lead our team and organization on and off the field.”
McDaniels, 41, may not be ready to give up on the current Patriots’ dynasty, which he has helped guide to five Super Bowl titles alongside head coach Bill Belichick and quarterback Tom Brady. Brady said recently he plans to return next season. Belichick’s contract runs through the 2018 season.
The change of heart is reminiscent of Belichick’s surprising decision to turn down the Jets’ head coaching job at his own introductory press conference in 2000, famously writing on a napkin he was resigning as “HC of the NYJ.” Belichick was named the Patriots head coach soon after.
McDaniels’ Patriots counterpart, former defensive coordinator Matt Patricia, followed his expected path out of New England. He was announced as the new head coach of the Lions on Monday.