Bill O’Brien could be headed back to the NFL for a familiar role.

As the New England Patriots look for a solution to their lackluster offense this season, the Alabama offensive coordinator is considered a strong option to return to Bill Belichick’s staff, Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network reported.

O’Brien has been the Crimson Tide’s OC for 2 seasons under Alabama head coach Nick Saban and will call plays against Kansas State in the Sugar Bowl on New Year’s Eve. A contingent of Alabama fans, however, has been frustrated with O’Brien for his play calling production, or lack thereof, this season.

The report noted that when O’Brien joined Saban’s staff at Alabama in 2021, he gave Saban a commitment to finish out his two-year contract. That time is coming up, and sources said there has been no extension and that a return to the NFL is a real thought for O’Brien.