NEEDHAM — Jerod Mayo took a job in February 2026 as a managing director at Fifth Down Capital, a private equity and business capital firm. The firm is based in Needham and focuses on partnering with generational companies and compelling fund managers to shape large, enduring markets.

Fifth Down Capital has investments in technology, healthcare, and consumer/retail companies. Mayo’s role at the firm builds on more than a decade of experience as an active investor and advisor to private companies.

Mayo, 40, holds a degree in political science from the University of Tennessee. His career includes eight seasons as a linebacker for the New England Patriots from 2008 to 2015, during which he earned two Pro Bowl selections, one All-Pro honor, and won a Super Bowl. He was selected by the Patriots in the first round of the 2008 NFL Draft.

After retiring as a player, Mayo spent three years as vice president of business development at Optum, a healthcare services company and subsidiary of UnitedHealth Group. He returned to the Patriots in 2019 as inside linebackers coach and was promoted to head coach in 2024 following Bill Belichick’s departure.

The Patriots posted a 4–13 record in 2024 under Mayo and endured two separate six-game losing streaks. The team decided to part ways with Mayo after the season, despite a Week 18 victory over the Buffalo Bills.

Robert Kraft, owner of the Patriots, described the decision as one of the one or two hardest he has made. “I’m a fan first, and I thought this just isn’t the right situation, and that’s on me. Jerod’s a great guy, but I just didn’t want to go through a continuation of what happened.” Kraft also noted the firing carried the worst financial implication since his family acquired the team, citing costs tied to Mayo’s contract and the dismissal of 25 other coaches.

During his introductory press conference as head coach, Mayo emphasized lessons from his time at Optum. “One thing I came back with, I learned a lot at Optum. I learned a lot about diversity, about diversity and inclusion. You’d better believe being the first Black coach here in New England means a lot to me. But those guys taught me you have to take ideas from other people, Black, white, green, yellow. Really doesn’t matter. Old, young.”