Jankovich Quits the Patriots

Less than 24 hours after the firing of Coach Dick MacPherson, Sam Jankovich resigned as chief executive officer of the New England Patriots on Saturday.

Jankovich has been mentioned as a prospective candidate to replace Mike McGee as athletic director at USC.

Jankovich, a former athletic director at Washington State and Miami, was hired by the Patriots in December of 1990, and one of his first major moves was the selection of MacPherson as coach. They combined for a record of 8-24 in two seasons.

Jankovich said in a statement that his resignation “is in the best interest of both myself and the Patriots organization.”

Jankovich’s resignation could clear the way for the Patriots to hire Mike Ditka, fired by the Chicago Bears, or former New York Giant coach Bill Parcells.

Jankovich said the firing of MacPherson did not trigger his resignation.

“After a great deal of consideration and after consultation with the owner of the New England Patriots football club, I have decided to submit my resignation,” the statement said.

“The events of the last couple of days had no major impact on this decision. Now the Patriots have a golden opportunity and must look forward to the future with Jim Orthwein as owner, a new football coach and coaching staff, a new day in the National Football League with the labor agreement, and free agency and the No. 1 draft choice.”

MacPherson said he was stunned by Jankovich’s departure.

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“I have no idea what to say,” MacPherson said. “I’m shocked. I’ll be anxious to see what the next development is. I feel badly for the Patriots.”