Patriots OC Josh McDaniels decides to decline Colts job

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. — Josh McDaniels has backed out of a deal to become the Indianapolis' Colts new coach, a decision that shocked the franchise hours after it announced his hiring.

The Colts confirmed McDaniels' decision in a statement Tuesday night after reports emerged that the Patriots' offensive coordinator had opted to stay in New England with coach Bill Belichick.

MORE: Patriots offensive coordinator decides NOT to accept Colts job

McDaniels had agreed to contract terms with the Colts to replace the fired Chuck Pagano, and a news conference had been scheduled for Wednesday at Lucas Oil Stadium.

Just a few hours later, the Colts said McDaniels informed them he would not sign the deal.

"Although we are surprised and disappointed, we will resume our head coaching search immediately and find the right fit to lead our team and organization on and off the field," the Colts said in the statement.

Does this sound familiar?

The whole situation echoes what Bill Belichick himself did in 1999. He took the job as New York Jets head coach and resigned a day later.

And as if there wasn’t enough drama just a few days into the off-season, there’s also the Malcolm Butler situation.

The one-time Super Bowl hero didn’t play a snap on defense during this Super Bowl loss and Belichick would only call Butler’s benching a “football decision.”

RELATED: Malcolm Butler denies reports he missed curfew during Super Bowl week

Butler spoke out on social media, thanking fans and writing, “during Super Bowl week I never attended any concert, missed curfew or participated in any of the ridiculous activities being reported. They are not only false, but hurtful to me and my family.”

Quarterback Tom Brady commented on Butler’s Instagram post and said, “Love you Malcolm! You are an incredible teammate and player and friend. Always!”

The Associated Press contributed to this report

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