Report: Schiano could have 'key spot' on Patriots staff

The New England Patriots are expected to give Greg Schiano a "key spot" on their defensive staff following the Super Bowl, according to NFL.com's Ian Rapoport.

Patriots linebackers coach and defensive play-caller Brian Flores is expected to be introduced as head coach of the Miami Dolphins on Monday, and Schiano could be the man to take over New England's defensive unit.

Schiano, who has served as the defensive coordinator at Ohio State since 2016, is "close" with Patriots head coach Bill Belichick, Rapoport added. He turned down the defensive coordinator position with New England last year.

Prior to his tenure with the Buckeyes, Schiano was the head coach of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for their 2012-13 and 2013-14 seasons, accumulating an 11-21 record. He also served as the head coach at Rutgers from 2001 to 2011.