The New England Patriots officially revealed their 29-person coaching staff Tuesday.
Three-time Patriots Super Bowl champion Patrick Chung wasn’t on the list — not that he was a surprise omission like Troy Brown. But Chung could make an appearance on New England’s sideline at some point in the future, even if it’s in an unofficial role.
Kay Adams asked Chung on Tuesday on the “Up and Adams Show” if there’s a chance he could return to the franchise in a coaching capacity and Chung tried to side-step the question, but didn’t exactly rule it out.
“I plead the fifth,” Chung said.
Chung, who turns 37 next month, said he stays in contact with Jerod Mayo. Chung was drafted a year after Mayo and the two spent six seasons together playing in New England’s defense.
Chung was pushed on whether he’s been asked by Mayo to join the staff or if he’s interested in a coaching role, but once again danced around giving a direct answer.
“I’m saying I don’t know,” Chung said with a smile. “We’ll see what happens.”
Mayo isn’t the only former Patriots player now coaching for New England. Another one of Chung’s former teammates in Dont’a Hightower is a first-year inside linebackers coach while Tiquan Underwood, who played alongside Chung as well, took over as an assistant wide receivers coach. Matthew Slater is also on the staff but doesn’t have an official title.
Chung, a 2009 second-round pick, played 10 of his 11 seasons with New England during the second part of its dynasty. The former Patriots safety was known for his toughness and versatility as he compiled 719 tackles and 11 interceptions during his career with New England.
And Chung, who still lives in the area and is a regular visitor at Patriots practices, feels he would bring more of the same as a coach.
“The same thing I brought when I was playing,” Chung said. “Just a little toughness, some education for these young guys and put them in the right spot.”
