If you're a Patriots fan, you might want to learn more about Chad O'Shea in the coming weeks. And if you don't, you might anyway - because O'Shea could very well be the next Patriots offensive coordinator.

The Patriots' wide receivers coach since 2009, O'Shea has worked his way up through the NFL ranks since 2003 as an assistant with the Kansas City Chiefs and then various roles with the Minnesota Vikings. And now, with Josh McDaniels headed to the Colts to be their next head coach, O'Shea appears to be a top candidate to take his place.

O'Shea had a unique task on his plate over the course of the 2017 season. He had to get Brandin Cooks, a decidedly different kind of player than the receivers you typically see with Tom Brady, acclimated to the Patriots offense from scratch after he came over in a trade with the Saints. It feels like Cooks' work with O'Shea and the coaching staff culminated in his strong performance in the AFC Championship Game, but the hope for the Pats is that the real culmination is coming on Sunday in Super Bowl LII.

"He's Been Spectacular"

Echoing past comments from other Patriots players and coaches, Cooks spoke very highly of O'Shea's infectious attitude, a personality that reflects the qualities of a future coordinator - or even better.

"Coach O'Shea has been awesome, he's been spectacular all year, from the moment that I got into the building until now," said Cooks. "His energy level every single day is awesome and it's contagious as players. So [I have] a ton of respect for what he's done and what he's doing for us to get us ready."

Cooks is far from the first player or coach to speak so fondly of O'Shea. So don't be surprised if he becomes the next McDaniels in short order.

-- By Matt Dolloff, 985TheSportsHub.com

Matt Dolloff is a digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Have a news tip, question, or comment for Matt? Follow him on Twitter @mattdolloff or email him at [email protected].