Patriots facing major backlash for Rooney Rule handling in head coach search

The New England Patriots are facing significant criticism for the way they quickly checked off the Rooney Rule in their search for a new head coach. It’s apparent the team is looking to move fast on a coaching hire after firing Jerod Mayo, following their Week 18 win over the Buffalo Bills. Mayo was the head coach for only one season before he was ultimately shown the door by owner Robert Kraft. Mike Vrabel is believed to be the frontrunner for the head coaching job in New England, and the team quickly cleared a path to hiring him by interviewing…