Analysis: Bill Belichick was passed over this coaching cycle but don’t count his career over yet
ByFrank O'Laughlin, Boston 25 News Staff
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Chiefs Patriots Football New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick, center, stands in front of team owner Robert Kraft, left, and Jon Bon Jovi, right, prior to an NFL football game against the Kansas City Chiefs, Sunday, Dec. 17, 2023, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Michael Dwyer) (Michael Dwyer/AP)
New England Patriots Training Camp Foxborough, MA - August 4: Patriots Coach Bill Belichick flashes a rare smile as a young reporter asks him a question at his press briefing. (Photo by John Tlumacki/The Boston Globe via Getty Images) (Boston Globe/Boston Globe via Getty Images)
Patriots Belichick Football FILE - New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick holds the Vince Lombardi Trophy after the Patriots beat the Carolina Panthers 32-29 in Super Bowl XXXVIII in Houston, Texas, Feb. 1, 2004. Six-time NFL champion Bill Belichick has agreed to part ways as the coach of the New England Patriots on Thursday, Jan. 11, 2024, bringing an end to his 24-year tenure as the architect of the most decorated dynasty of the league’s Super Bowl era, a source told the Associated Press on the condition of anonymity because it has not yet been announced. (AP Photo/Dave Martin, File) (Dave Martin/AP)
Patriots Belichick Football FILE - New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick addresses questions about the upcoming NFL draft during a news conference at Foxboro Stadium in Foxborough, Mass., Wednesday, April 12, 2000. Six-time NFL champion Bill Belichick has agreed to part ways as the coach of the New England Patriots on Thursday, Jan. 11, 2024, bringing an end to his 24-year tenure as the architect of the most decorated dynasty of the league’s Super Bowl era, a source told the Associated Press on the condition of anonymity because it has not yet been announced. (AP Photo/ Victoria Arocho, File) (Victoria Arocho/AP)
Patriots Belichick Football FILE - New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick is doused after the Patriots beat the Philadelphia Eagles 24-21 in Super Bowl XXXIX at Alltel Stadium in Jacksonville, Fla., Feb. 6, 2005. At right is Belichick's father, Steve. Six-time NFL champion Bill Belichick has agreed to part ways as the coach of the New England Patriots on Thursday, Jan. 11, 2024, bringing an end to his 24-year tenure as the architect of the most decorated dynasty of the league’s Super Bowl era, a source told the Associated Press on the condition of anonymity because it has not yet been announced.(AP Photo/David J. Phillip, File) (DAVID J. PHILLIP/AP)
Patriots Belichick Football FILE - New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick waves to fans after the Patriots beat the New York Jets 31-14 in an NFL football game in Foxborough, Mass., Sunday Nov. 22, 2009. Six-time NFL champion Bill Belichick has agreed to part ways as the coach of the New England Patriots on Thursday, Jan. 11, 2024, bringing an end to his 24-year tenure as the architect of the most decorated dynasty of the league’s Super Bowl era, a source told the Associated Press on the condition of anonymity because it has not yet been announced. (AP Photo/Elise Amendola, File) (Elise Amendola/AP)
Patriots Belichick Football FILE - New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick holds the championship trophy after the NFL football AFC Championship game Sunday, Jan. 18, 2015, in Foxborough, Mass. The Patriots defeated the Colts 45-7 to advance to the Super Bowl against the Seattle Seahawks. Six-time NFL champion Bill Belichick has agreed to part ways as the coach of the New England Patriots on Thursday, Jan. 11, 2024, bringing an end to his 24-year tenure as the architect of the most decorated dynasty of the league’s Super Bowl era, a source told the Associated Press on the condition of anonymity because it has not yet been announced.(AP Photo/Matt Slocum, File) (Matt Slocum/AP)
Bill Belichick Football FILE - New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick holds up a Super Bowl trophy as he addresses the crowd during a rally Feb. 7, 2017, in Boston to celebrate the team's win over the Atlanta Falcons in the NFL Super Bowl 51 football game in Houston. Six-time NFL champion Bill Belichick has agreed to part ways as the coach of the New England Patriots on Thursday, Jan. 11, 2024, bringing an end to his 24-year tenure as the architect of the most decorated dynasty of the league’s Super Bowl era, a source told the Associated Press on the condition of anonymity because it has not yet been announced. (AP Photo/Elise Amendola, File) (Elise Amendola/AP)
Patriots Belichick Football FILE - New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady, left, celebrates with head coach Bill Belichick after defeating the Miami Dolphins 41-13 in an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 14, 2014, in Foxborough, Mass. Six-time NFL champion Bill Belichick has agreed to part ways as the coach of the New England Patriots on Thursday, Jan. 11, 2024, bringing an end to his 24-year tenure as the architect of the most decorated dynasty of the league’s Super Bowl era, a source told the Associated Press on the condition of anonymity because it has not yet been announced. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa, File) (Charles Krupa/AP)
Super Bowl LIII ATLANTA GA. - FEBRUARY 3: Head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots on the field before Super Bowl LIII at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on February 3, 2019 in Atlanta, GA. (Staff Photo By Nancy Lane/MediaNews Group/Boston Herald) (MediaNews Group/Boston Herald vi/MediaNews Group via Getty Images)
Patriots Raiders Football New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick walks off the field at the end of the first half of an NFL football game against the Las Vegas Raiders, Sunday, Oct. 15, 2023, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/David Becker) (David Becker/AP)
Bills Patriots Football New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick, right, embraces Buffalo Bills head coach Sean McDermott after a Patriots 29-25 win following an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 22, 2023, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Michael Dwyer) (Michael Dwyer/AP)
Through the years FOXBORO, MA - JANUARY 13: Tom Brady #12 of the New England Patriots wlaks past head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots against the Houston Texans during the 2013 AFC Divisional Playoffs game at Gillette Stadium on January 13, 2013 in Foxboro, Massachusetts. (Photo by Jim Rogash/Getty Images) (Jim Rogash/Getty Images)
Through the years Bill Belichick, Head Coach of the New England Patriots, speaks at a Press Conference where Patriot wide receiver Deion Branch was awarded the Pete Rozelle Trophy for the Most Valuable Player Award for Super Bowl XXXIX. (Photo by Steve Grayson/Getty Images) (Steve Grayson/NFL)
Through the years GLENDALE, AZ - FEBRUARY 01: Head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots celebrates with Darrelle Revis #24 after defeating the Seattle Seahawks during Super Bowl XLIX at University of Phoenix Stadium on February 1, 2015 in Glendale, Arizona. The Patriots defeated the Seahawks 28-24. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) (Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
Through the years HOUSTON, TX - FEBRUARY 05: Head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots and Tom Brady #12 celebrate after winning 34-28 over the Atlanta Falcons in Super Bowl 51 at NRG Stadium on February 5, 2017 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images) (Jamie Squire/Getty Images)
Through the years FOXBORO, MA - SEPTEMBER 12: Bill Belichick reacts after D'Brickashaw Ferguson #60 of the New York Jets shoved Aqib Talib #31 of the New England Patriots, who intercepted a pass, in the 4th quarter at Gillette Stadium on September 12, 2013 in Foxboro, Massachusetts. (Photo by Jim Rogash/Getty Images) (Jim Rogash/Getty Images)
Through the years MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 11: Head coach Bill Belichick and Mac Jones #10 look on during pregame at Hard Rock Stadium on September 11, 2022 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Megan Briggs/Getty Images) (Megan Briggs/Getty Images)
Through the years FOXBOROUGH, MA - JANUARY 21: Tom Brady #12 of the New England Patriots celebrates with head coach Bill Belichick after winning the AFC Championship Game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Gillette Stadium on January 21, 2018 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) (Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
Through the years HOUSTON - JANUARY 26: Head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots answers questions from the media January 26, 2003 at the Houston Convention Center before Super Bowl XXXVIII against the Carolina Panthers in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Brian Bahr/Getty Images) (Brian Bahr/Getty Images)
Through the years FOXBORO, MA - JANUARY 20: Head coach Bill Belchick of the New England Patriots stands on the sidelines during a break in play agaiinst the San Diego Chargers during the AFC Championship Game on January 20, 2008 at Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, Massachusetts. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) (Elsa/Getty Images)
Through the years HONOLULU - JANUARY 30: Bill Bilichick, head coach of the American Football Conference team stands on the sideline during the 2011 NFL Pro Bowl at Aloha Stadium on January 30, 2011 in Honolulu, Hawaii. (Photo by Kent Nishimura/Getty Images) (Kent Nishimura/Getty Images)
Through the years GLENDALE, AZ - FEBRUARY 01: Head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots stands on the field during the pregame warm up prior to playing in Super Bowl XLIX at University of Phoenix Stadium on February 1, 2015 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images) (Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
Through the years FOXBORO, MA - SEPTEMBER 12: Head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots talks to his team in the first quarter while taking on the New York Jets at Gillette Stadium on September 12, 2013 in Foxboro, Massachusetts. (Photo by Jim Rogash/Getty Images) (Jim Rogash/Getty Images)
Through the years FOXBOROUGH, MA - CIRCA 2011: In this handout image provided by the NFL, Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots poses for his NFL headshot circa 2011 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by NFL via Getty Images) (Handout/Getty Images)
Through the years FOXBORO, MA - NOVEMBER 3: Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots shakes hands with Mike Tomlin of the Pittsburgh Steelers after their game at Gillette Stadium on November 3, 2013 in Foxboro, Massachusetts. (Photo by Jim Rogash/Getty Images) (Jim Rogash/Getty Images)
Through the years ATLANTA, GA - SEPTEMBER 29: Tom Brady #12 of the New England Patriots converses with head coach Bill Belichick during the game against the Atlanta Falcons at Georgia Dome on September 29, 2013 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) (Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
Through the years WASHINGTON - APRIL 13: New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick (L) presents U.S. President George W. Bush (R) with a football during a Rose Garden event to honor the Super Bowl champions at the White House April 13, 2005 in Washington, DC. The Patriots have won three Championships in the last four years. (Photo by Alex Wong/Getty Images) (Alex Wong/Getty Images)
Through the years HOUSTON, TX - FEBRUARY 05: Head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots gives a thumbs up on the field prior to Super Bowl 51 against the Atlanta Falcons at NRG Stadium on February 5, 2017 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images) (Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
Through the years FOXBORO, MA - JANUARY 16: Tom Brady #12 and head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots shake hands at the start of the AFC Divisional Playoff Game against the Kansas City Chiefs at Gillette Stadium on January 16, 2016 in Foxboro, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) (Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
Through the years FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS - OCTOBER 08: Head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots reacts during the fourth quarter against the New Orleans Saints at Gillette Stadium on October 08, 2023 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Winslow Townson/Getty Images) (Winslow Townson/Getty Images)
Through the years FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS - JANUARY 01: Head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots reacts against the Miami Dolphins during the second half at Gillette Stadium on January 01, 2023 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Winslow Townson/Getty Images) (Winslow Townson/Getty Images)
Through the years HOLLYWOOD - JULY 10: NFL coach Bill Belichick of the Baltimore Ravens arrives for the 10th Annual ESPY Awards at the Kodak Theatre on July 10, 2002 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Robert Mora/Getty Images) (Robert Mora/Getty Images)
Through the years FOXBORO, MA - JANUARY 13: Head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots talks with his team during the 2013 AFC Divisional Playoffs game against the Houston Texans at Gillette Stadium on January 13, 2013 in Foxboro, Massachusetts. (Photo by Jim Rogash/Getty Images) (Jim Rogash/Getty Images)
Through the years ATLANTA, GA - FEBRUARY 03: Tom Brady #12 of the New England Patriots talks to head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots after the Patriots defeat the Rams 13-3 during Super Bowl LIII at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on February 3, 2019 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) (Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
Through the years GLENDALE, ARIZONA - DECEMBER 12: Head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots looks on prior to the game against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium on December 12, 2022 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) (Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
Through the years FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS - DECEMBER 03: Head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots walks off the field after losing to the Los Angeles Chargers 6-0 at Gillette Stadium on December 03, 2023 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) (Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
Through the years FOXBOROUGH, MA - SEPTEMBER 09: Head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots reacts during the second half against the Houston Texans at Gillette Stadium on September 9, 2018 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Jim Rogash/Getty Images) (Jim Rogash/Getty Images)
Through the years GREEN BAY, WISCONSIN - OCTOBER 02: Head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots and Aaron Rodgers #12 of the Green Bay Packers talk after Green Bay's 27-24 win in overtime at Lambeau Field on October 02, 2022 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images) (Patrick McDermott/Getty Images)
Super Bowl LI - New England Patriots v Atlanta Falcons HOUSTON, USA - FEBRUARY 05: Bill Belichick head coach of the New England Patriots during the trophy ceremony for Super Bowl 51 at NRG Stadium on February 5, 2017 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Simon Bruty/Anychance/Getty Images) (Simon M Bruty/Getty Images)
APTOPIX Jets Patriots Football Fans show their support of New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick during the first half of an NFL football game against the New York Jets, Sunday, Jan. 7, 2024, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Michael Dwyer) (Michael Dwyer/AP)
New England Patriots v Buffalo Bills ORCHARD PARK, NEW YORK - DECEMBER 31: Head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots looks on during the first half of a game against the Buffalo Bills at Highmark Stadium on December 31, 2023 in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Rich Barnes/Getty Images) (Rich Barnes/Getty Images)
Super Bowl XLIX - New England Patriots v Seattle Seahawks GLENDALE, AZ - FEBRUARY 01: Head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots holds the Vince Lombardi Trophyafter defeating the Seattle Seahawks 28-24 during Super Bowl XLIX at University of Phoenix Stadium on February 1, 2015 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images) (Tom Pennington/Getty Images)
Washington Nationals v Boston Red Sox BOSTON, MA - APRIL 13: New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick and quarterback Tom Brady walk towards the pitchers mound at Fenway Park before the game between the Boston Red Sox and the Washington Nationals on April 13, 2015 in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) (Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
Super Bowl LI - New England Patriots v Atlanta Falcons HOUSTON, TX - FEBRUARY 05: Tom Brady #12 and head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots celebrate a 34-28 overtime win against the Atlanta Falcons during Super Bowl 51 at NRG Stadium on February 5, 2017 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images) (Al Bello/Getty Images)
Divisional Playoffs - Baltimore Ravens v New England Patriots FOXBORO, MA - JANUARY 10: Tom Brady #12 and head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots talk before the 2014 AFC Divisional Playoffs game against the Baltimore Ravens at Gillette Stadium on January 10, 2015 in Foxboro, Massachusetts. (Photo by Jim Rogash/Getty Images) (Jim Rogash/Getty Images)
Super Bowl LI - New England Patriots v Atlanta Falcons HOUSTON, TX - FEBRUARY 05: Tom Brady #12 and head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots celebrate a 34-28 overtime win against the Atlanta Falcons during Super Bowl 51 at NRG Stadium on February 5, 2017 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images) (Al Bello/Getty Images)
Super Bowl LI - New England Patriots v Atlanta Falcons HOUSTON, TX - FEBRUARY 05: Tom Brady #12 of the New England Patriots reacts with head coach Bill Belichick after defeating the Atlanta Falcons 34-28 in overtime to win Super Bowl 51 at NRG Stadium on February 5, 2017 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images) (Jamie Squire/Getty Images)
Super Bowl LI - New England Patriots v Atlanta Falcons HOUSTON, TX - FEBRUARY 05: Head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots and Tom Brady #12 celebrate after winning 34-28 over the Atlanta Falcons in Super Bowl 51 at NRG Stadium on February 5, 2017 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images) (Jamie Squire/Getty Images)
AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-Am - Round One PEBBLE BEACH, CA - FEBRUARY 06: NFL football coach Bill Belichick and professional football player Tom Brady stand on the 17th hole green during the first round of the AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-Am at Spyglass Hill Golf Course on February 6, 2014 in Pebble Beach, California. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) (Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
Super Bowl LI - New England Patriots v Atlanta Falcons HOUSTON, TX - FEBRUARY 05: Tom Brady #12 of the New England Patriots celebrates with head coach Bill Belichick after the Patriots defeat the Atlanta Falcons 34-28 in overtime of Super Bowl 51 at NRG Stadium on February 5, 2017 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) (Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
Divisional Round - Kansas City Chiefs v New England Patriots FOXBORO, MA - JANUARY 16: Tom Brady #12 and head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots shake hands at the start of the AFC Divisional Playoff Game against the Kansas City Chiefs at Gillette Stadium on January 16, 2016 in Foxboro, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) (Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
Los Angeles Chargers v New England Patriots FOXBORO, MA - OCTOBER 29: Head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots talks with Tom Brady #12 during the fourth quarter of a game against the Los Angeles Chargers at Gillette Stadium on October 29, 2017 in Foxboro, Massachusetts. (Photo by Jim Rogash/Getty Images) (Jim Rogash/Getty Images)
AFC Championship - Jacksonville Jaguars v New England Patriots FOXBOROUGH, MA - JANUARY 21: Tom Brady #12 of the New England Patriots celebrates with head coach Bill Belichick after winning the AFC Championship Game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Gillette Stadium on January 21, 2018 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) (Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
AFC Championship - Indianapolis Colts v New England Patriots FOXBORO, MA - JANUARY 18: Tom Brady #12 of the New England Patriots talks with head coach Bill Belichick prior to the 2015 AFC Championship Game against the Indianapolis Colts at Gillette Stadium on January 18, 2015 in Foxboro, Massachusetts. (Photo by Jim Rogash/Getty Images) (Jim Rogash/Getty Images)
Seattle Seahawks v New England Patriots FOXBORO, MA - NOVEMBER 13: Tom Brady #12 of the New England Patriots reacts with head coach Bill Belichick during the fourth quarter of a game against the Seattle Seahawks at Gillette Stadium on November 13, 2016 in Foxboro, Massachusetts. (Photo by Billie Weiss/Getty Images) (Billie Weiss/Getty Images)
Super Bowl XLIX - New England Patriots v Seattle Seahawks GLENDALE, AZ - FEBRUARY 01: Tom Brady #12, team owner Robert Kraft, and head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots celebrate with the Vince Lombardi Trophy after defeating the Seattle Seahawks 28-24 to win Super Bowl XLIX at University of Phoenix Stadium on February 1, 2015 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images) (Tom Pennington/Getty Images)
Super Bowl XLIX - New England Patriots v Seattle Seahawks GLENDALE, AZ - FEBRUARY 01: The New England Patriots celebrate late in the game with head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots against the Seattle Seahawks during Super Bowl XLIX at University of Phoenix Stadium on February 1, 2015 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Stephen Dunn/Getty Images) (Stephen Dunn/Getty Images)
Super Bowl XLIX - New England Patriots v Seattle Seahawks GLENDALE, AZ - FEBRUARY 01: Tom Brady #12 of the New England Patriots celebrates with head coach Bill Belichick after defeating the Seattle Seahawks 28-24 during Super Bowl XLIX at University of Phoenix Stadium on February 1, 2015 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) (Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
Super Bowl XLIX - New England Patriots v Seattle Seahawks GLENDALE, AZ - FEBRUARY 01: Tom Brady #12 of the New England Patriots celebrates with head coach Bill Belichick after defeating the Seattle Seahawks 28-24 during Super Bowl XLIX at University of Phoenix Stadium on February 1, 2015 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) (Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
El entrenador en jefe de los Patriots de Nueva Inglaterra Bill Belichick observa desde la línea lateral durante la primera mitad del juego de la NFL ante los Jets de Nueva York, el domingo 7 de enero de 2024, en Foxborough, Massachusetts. (AP Foto/Michael Dwyer) (Michael Dwyer/AP)
Jets Patriots Football New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick watches from the sidelines during the first half of an NFL football game against the New York Jets, Sunday, Jan. 7, 2024, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Michael Dwyer) (Michael Dwyer/AP)
Jets Patriots Football New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick, center, walks off the field after an NFL football game, Sunday, Jan. 7, 2024, in Foxborough, Mass. The Jets defeated the Patriots 17-3. (AP Photo/Michael Dwyer) (Michael Dwyer/AP)
NFL: New York Jets at New England Patriots Jan 7, 2024; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick watches from the sideline as they take on the New York Jets at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports (David Butler II/USA TODAY Sports via Reuters Con)
New York Jets v New England Patriots FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS - JANUARY 07: New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick looks on in the first half at Gillette Stadium on January 07, 2024 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Winslow Townson/Getty Images) (Winslow Townson/Getty Images)
APTOPIX Jets Patriots Football New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick, right, embraces New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers after an NFL football game, Sunday, Jan. 7, 2024, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Steven Senne) (Steven Senne/AP)
New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick watches from the sideline during the first half of an NFL football game against the New York Jets, Sunday, Jan. 7, 2024, in Foxborough, Mass. New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick watches from the sideline during the first half of an NFL football game against the New York Jets, Sunday, Jan. 7, 2024, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Michael Dwyer) (Michael Dwyer/AP)
Jets Patriots Football New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick watches from the sideline during the first half of an NFL football game against the New York Jets, Sunday, Jan. 7, 2024, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Michael Dwyer) (Michael Dwyer/AP)
New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick on the side line during the second half of an NFL football game against the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday, Dec. 17, 2023, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Greg M. Cooper) (Greg M. Cooper/AP)
New England Patriots v Denver Broncos DENVER, COLORADO - DECEMBER 24: Head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots walks onto the field prior to the game against the Denver Broncos at Empower Field At Mile High on December 24, 2023 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images) (Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Bill Belichick New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick shouts from the sidelines during the first half of an NFL football game against the Kansas City Chiefs, Sunday, Dec. 17, 2023, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Michael Dwyer) (Michael Dwyer/AP)
New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick speaks during a news conference early Friday, Dec. 8, 2023, following an NFL football game Thursday night against the Pittsburgh Steelers, in Pittsburgh. (AP Photo/Matt Freed) (Matt Freed/AP)
Bill Belichick: The coach has won six Super Bowl titles but has suffered through a frustrating season in 2023. (Mark Alberti/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
NFL: DEC 07 Patriots at Steelers PITTSBURGH, PA - DECEMBER 07: New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick looks on during the regular season NFL football game between the New England Patriots and Pittsburgh Steelers on December 07, 2023 at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh, PA. (Photo by Mark Alberti/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) (Icon Sportswire/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
Los Angeles Chargers v New England Patriots FOXBORO, MA - DECEMBER 3: New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick stands on the sideline during the second half against the Los Angeles Chargers at Gillette Stadium on December 3, 2023 in Foxboro, Massachusetts. (Photo by Kathryn Riley/Getty Images) (Kathryn Riley/Getty Images)
Los Angeles Chargers v New England Patriots FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS - DECEMBER 03: Bailey Zappe #4 of the New England Patriots meets with head coach Bill Belichick in the third quarter against the Los Angeles Chargers at Gillette Stadium on December 03, 2023 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) (Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
Buffalo Bills v New England Patriots FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS - OCTOBER 22: Head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots reacts after a play in the second half of the game against the Buffalo Bills at Gillette Stadium on October 22, 2023 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) (Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
Baltimore Ravens v New England Patriots FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS - SEPTEMBER 25: Head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots shakes hands with quarterback Lamar Jackson #8 of the Baltimore Ravens after Baltimore's 37-26 win at Gillette Stadium on September 25, 2022 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
dNew England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick during the second half of an NFL football game against the Kansas City Chiefs, Sunday, Dec. 17, 2023, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Michael Dwyer) (Michael Dwyer/AP)
New England Patriots v Dallas Cowboys ARLINGTON, TX - OCTOBER 01: New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick looks on before kickoff against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium on October 1, 2023 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images) (Cooper Neill/Getty Images)
New England Patriots v Las Vegas Raiders LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - OCTOBER 15: Head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots look on during the fourth quarter against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium on October 15, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images) (Ethan Miller/Getty Images)
New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick walks off the field at the end of the first half of an NFL football game against the Las Vegas Raiders, Sunday, Oct. 15, 2023, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/David Becker) (David Becker/AP)
New Orleans Saints (34) Vs. New England Patriots (0) At Gillette Stadium Foxborough, MA - October 8: New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick watches the action from the sidelines. The Patriots lost to the New Orleans Saints, 34-0. (Photo by Barry Chin/The Boston Globe via Getty Images) (Boston Globe/Boston Globe via Getty Images)
New Orleans Saints v New England Patriots FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS - OCTOBER 08: Head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots looks on during the first quarter against the New Orleans Saints at Gillette Stadium on October 08, 2023 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Winslow Townson/Getty Images) (Winslow Townson/Getty Images)
New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick watches play against the Dallas Cowboys in the second half of an NFL football game in Arlington, Texas, Sunday, Oct. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Michael Ainsworth) (Michael Ainsworth/AP)
Miami Dolphins v New England Patriots FOXBORO, MA - SEPTEMBER 17: Bill Belichick, head coach of the New England Patriots stands on the sidelines in the fourth quarter against the Miami Dolphins at Gillette Stadium on September 17, 2023 in Foxboro, Massachusetts. (Photo by Kathryn Riley/Getty Images) (Kathryn Riley/Getty Images)
Miami Dolphins v New England Patriots FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS - SEPTEMBER 17: Head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots looks on prior to a game against the Miami Dolphins at Gillette Stadium on September 17, 2023 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Adam Glanzman/Getty Images) (Adam Glanzman/Getty Images)
New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick calls to officials during the first half of an NFL football game against the Miami Dolphins, Sunday, Sept. 17, 2023, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Michael Dwyer) (Michael Dwyer/AP)
Mike Vrabel, Jon Robinson, Rashaan Evans New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick watches play during their NFL football game against the Tennessee Titans Friday, Aug. 25, 2023, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Wade Payne) (Wade Payne/AP)
NFL: Miami Dolphins at New England Patriots Jan 1, 2023; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick on the field for warm ups before the start of the game against the Miami Dolphins at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports - 19708810
New England Patriots v Buffalo Bills ORCHARD PARK, NEW YORK - JANUARY 08: Head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots watches his team play during the third quarter against the Buffalo Bills at Highmark Stadium on January 08, 2023 in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Bryan M. Bennett/Getty Images)
New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick attends a news conference after their NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills, Sunday, Jan. 8, 2023, in Orchard Park. (AP Photo/Adrian Kraus)
Bill Belichick and Nick Saban talk as the South squad runs drills during practice for the Senior Bowl Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2020, in Mobile, Ala. (AP Photo/Butch Dill)
NFL: New York Jets at New England Patriots Nov 20, 2022; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick talk to an official as the take on the New York Jets in the first half at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports - 19473772
Tom Brady, Bill Belichick FILE - In this Feb. 5, 2017, file photo, New England Patriots' Tom Brady holds the Vince Lombardi Trophy beside coach Bill Belichick, right, after the Patriots defeated the Atlanta Falcons 34-28 in overtime at the NFL Super Bowl 51 football game in Houston. A new book and a movie are in the works about Brady and the suspension he overcame to earn an unprecedented fifth Super Bowl ring. (AP Photo/Darron Cummings, File)
New Orleans Saints v New England Patriots FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS - SEPTEMBER 26: Head coach Bill Belichick and Mac Jones #10 of the New England Patriots walk off the field after the loss to the New Orleans Saints at Gillette Stadium on September 26, 2021 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
FILE - New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft, left, talks to head coach Bill Belichick as their team warms up before an NFL football game against the New York Jets in East Rutherford, N.J., in this Monday, Oct. 21, 2019, file photo. Belichick never was one to spent wildly in free agency. But after watching Tom Brady celebrate another Super Bowl in another city, Belichick and his boss, Robert Kraft, had seen enough. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger, File)
Chicago Bears v New England Patriots FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS - OCTOBER 24: Head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots looks on during the first half against the Chicago Bears at Gillette Stadium on October 24, 2022 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick watches as his team plays against the Cleveland Browns during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 16, 2022, in Cleveland. (AP Photo/David Richard)
New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick on the sideline during the second half of an NFL football game against the Baltimore Ravens, Sunday, Sep. 25, 2022, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Stew Milne)
New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick walks off the field following an NFL football game against the Baltimore Ravens, Sunday, Sep. 25, 2022, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Stew Milne)
New England Patriots Training Camp Foxborough, MA - August 2: Bill Belichick addresses the media during Patriots Training Camp. (Photo by David L. Ryan/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)
New England Patriots v Las Vegas Raiders LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - AUGUST 26: Head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots looks on during warmups before preseason game against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium on August 26, 2022 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Chris Unger/Getty Images)
Panthers vs Patriots New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick, left, speaks with line judge Daniel Gallagher (85) during the first half of the team's preseason NFL football game against the Carolina Panthers, Friday, Aug. 19, 2022, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Michael Dwyer) (Michael Dwyer/AP)
New England Patriots Practice Foxborough, MA - July 31: New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick with Matt Patricia, Senior Football Advisor, on Day 4 of Patriots training camp in Foxborough, MA on July 31, 2021. (Photo by Barry Chin/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)
New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick approaches a news conference to face reporters before an NFL football team practice, Tuesday, June 7, 2022, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Steven Senne)
Bill Belichick New England head coach Bill Belichick and NFL scouts during Georgia's Pro Day in the Payne Indoor Athletic Facility in Athens, Ga., on Wednesday, March 16, 2022. (Photo by Tony Walsh) (Tony Walsh/Tony Walsh/UGAAA)
Brian Flores FILE - In this Jan. 19, 2017, file photo, New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick, center, speaks with linebackers coach Brian Flores, left, and defensive line coach Brendan Daly during an NFL football team practice, in Foxborough, Mass. Flores is now the head coach of the Miami Dolphins. The Dolphins hired Flores even though the Patriots’ Way hasn’t worked elsewhere. While Belichick owns a record six Super Bowl championship rings, his former New England assistants have combined for one playoff victory as head coaches. (AP Photo/Steven Senne, File) (Steven Senne/AP)
Tom Brady NEW ORLEANS, UNITED STATES: New England Patriots' quarterback Tom Brady celebrates with head coach Bill Belichick (R) after their win over the St. Louis Rams 03 February, 2002 in Super Bowl XXXVI in New Orleans, Louisiana. The Patriots defeated the Rams 20-17 for the NFL championship. AFP PHOTO/Jeff HAYNES (Photo credit should read JEFF HAYNES/AFP via Getty Images) (JEFF HAYNES/AFP via Getty Images)
Pete Carroll Bill Belichick Bill Belichick and Pete Carroll meet at midfield following the Seahawks win over the Patriots in Foxboro in 2016. (Jim Rogash/Getty Images)
Patriots lose to Miami New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick stands on the sidelines during the second half of an NFL football game against the Miami Dolphins, Sunday, Dec. 20, 2020, in Miami Gardens, Fla. The Dolphins defeated the Patriots 22-12.(AP Photo/Chris O'Meara) (Chris O'Meara/AP)
Bill Belichick in Subway commercial New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick gets a thumb's up for his six-word classic in an ad for Subway. (Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
Patroits Coach Bill Belichick discusses practice balls and their condition Patroits Coach Bill Belichick discusses practice balls and their condition
AFC Championship - Indianapolis Colts v New England Patriots FOXBORO, MA - JANUARY 18: Head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots looks on from the sidleine in the first quarter against the Indianapolis Colts of the 2015 AFC Championship Game at Gillette Stadium on January 18, 2015 in Foxboro, Massachusetts. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) (Elsa/Getty Images)
Super Bowl 2020: Pregame An unusual sight: New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick is a spectator at a Super Bowl. (Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
Bill Belichick joins DA's list of top 12 in 2012
Super Bowl LIII - New England Patriots v Los Angeles Rams ATLANTA, GA - FEBRUARY 03: Tom Brady #12 of the New England Patriots talks to head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots after the Patriots defeat the Rams 13-3 during Super Bowl LIII at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on February 3, 2019 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) (Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick takes questions from reporters before an NFL football practice, Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2019, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Steven Senne)
GF Default - Bill Belichick addresses media after Patriots OTAs
GF Default - Bill Belichick addresses media after Patriots OTAs
Bill Belichick Head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots looks on during the second half against the Kansas City Chiefs in the game at Gillette Stadium on Dec. 8, 2019, in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Adam Glanzman/Getty Images/Adam Glanzman/Getty Images)
New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick approaches a podium to take questions from reporters before an NFL football practice, Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2019, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Steven Senne)
GF Default - Does Bill Belichick use Twitter_
ByFrank O'Laughlin, Boston 25 News Staff
On Football analyzes the biggest topics in the NFL from week to week. For more On Football analysis, head here.
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Bill Belichick has won more Super Bowls than any coach and more games than everyone except Don Shula.
Still, he didn’t land a new job.
An iconic coach who built a two-decade dynasty in New England and teamed with Tom Brady to lead the Patriots to six championships somehow got shut out in a hiring cycle that started with eight openings.
“I was surprised. I thought there would be quite a bit of interest in someone who has won that much and is available,” Hall of Fame coach Tony Dungy told the AP. “Coach Belichick is obviously a legend and a winner.”
The last opening was filled Thursday when Washington turned to Dan Quinn, whose team blew a 28-3 lead against Belichick seven years ago as Brady led the Patriots to a 34-28 victory over the Atlanta Falcons in the greatest Super Bowl comeback in league history.
Belichick interviewed twice with Atlanta after parting from the Patriots but the Falcons hired Raheem Morris, who is 21-38 as a head coach.
One theory why Belichick didn’t get hired is that he still wants full control over personnel decisions like Patriots owner Robert Kraft gave him in New England after he won his third Super Bowl.
Belichick said in his departure from the Patriots that he was open to a more traditional front-office structure in which a general manager had final say. But a person informed of Belichick’s discussions with the Falcons told the AP he still wanted full control. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because the conversations were private.
“Things are changing in the NFL,” said ESPN analyst Tedy Bruschi, who was a Pro Bowl linebacker in New England under Belichick. “There’s more talk about ownership and collaboration. It’s becoming more organic where everybody is involved and everyone’s voice is heard. I don’t know if you can win football games that way, honestly. Eventually, the head coach has to be able to say: ‘I hear ya but this is the way we’re gonna go.’ I haven’t talked to Bill recently but Bill’s track record is great enough of not only picking players and winning games and winning championships.”
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New England Patriots Press Conference FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS - JANUARY 11: Owner Robert Kraft of the New England Patriots speaks to the media during a press conference at Gillette Stadium on January 11, 2024 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) (Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
Belichick and Patriots Part Ways After 24 Years Foxborough, MA - January 11: Robert Kraft follows former Patriots coach Bill Belichick at the end of a media availability. New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft and departing head coach Bill Belichick addressed the media at Gillette Stadium about the departure of Belichick. (Photo by John Tlumacki/The Boston Globe via Getty Images) (Boston Globe/Boston Globe via Getty Images)
Patriots Belichick Football New England Patriots team owner Robert Kraft, left, and former Patriots head coach Bill Belichick step away from a podium following an NFL football news conference, Thursday, Jan. 11, 2024, in Foxborough, Mass., to announce that Belichick, a six-time NFL champion, has agreed to part ways with the team. (AP Photo/Steven Senne) (Steven Senne/AP)
Patriots Belichick Football Former New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick, right, and Patriots owner Robert Kraft, left, arrive for an NFL football news conference, Thursday, Jan. 11, 2024, in Foxborough, Mass., to announce that Belichick, a six-time NFL champion, has agreed to part ways with the team. (AP Photo/Steven Senne) (Steven Senne/AP)
Patriots Belichick Football New England Patriots team owner Robert Kraft, left, and former Patriots head coach Bill Belichick stand together during an NFL football news conference, Thursday, Jan. 11, 2024, in Foxborough, Mass., to announce that Belichick, a six-time NFL champion, has agreed to part ways with the team. (AP Photo/Steven Senne) (Steven Senne/AP)
Patriots Belichick Football New England Patriots team owner Robert Kraft, left, and former Patriots head coach Bill Belichick shake hands during an NFL football news conference, Thursday, Jan. 11, 2024, in Foxborough, Mass., to announce that Belichick, a six-time NFL champion, has agreed to part ways with the team. (AP Photo/Steven Senne) (Steven Senne/AP)
Patriots Belichick Football New England Patriots team owner Robert Kraft, left, and former Patriots head coach Bill Belichick embrace during an NFL football news conference, Thursday, Jan. 11, 2024, in Foxborough, Mass., to announce that Belichick, a six-time NFL champion, has agreed to part ways with the team. (AP Photo/Steven Senne) (Steven Senne/AP)
APTOPIX Patriots Belichick Football New England Patriots team owner Robert Kraft, left, and former Patriots head coach Bill Belichick embrace during an NFL football news conference, Thursday, Jan. 11, 2024, in Foxborough, Mass., to announce that Belichick, a six-time NFL champion, has agreed to part ways with the team. (AP Photo/Steven Senne) (Steven Senne/AP)
New England Patriots Press Conference FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS - JANUARY 11: Owner Robert Kraft of the New England Patriots speaks to the media during a press conference at Gillette Stadium on January 11, 2024 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) (Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
Patriots Belichick Football New England Patriots team owner Robert Kraft faces reporters Thursday, Jan. 11, 2024, in Foxborough, Mass., during an NFL football news conference held to discuss the departure of former Patriots head coach Bill Belichick. Belichick's departure brings to an end to his 24-year tenure as the architect of the most decorated dynasty of the league's Super Bowl era. (AP Photo/Steven Senne) (Steven Senne/AP)
Patriots Belichick Football FILE - New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick, left, shakes hands with team owner Robert Kraft during a walk through of the Louisiana Superdome in New Orleans Saturday, Feb. 2, 2002. Six-time NFL champion Bill Belichick has agreed to part ways as the coach of the New England Patriots on Thursday, Jan. 11, 2024, bringing an end to his 24-year tenure as the architect of the most decorated dynasty of the league’s Super Bowl era, a person with knowledge of the situation told The Associated Press on the condition of anonymity because it has not yet been announced.(AP Photo/Steven Senne) (STEVEN SENNE/AP)
AMFOOT-NFL-PATRIOTS-BELICHICK New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick (R) and Patriots owner Robert Kraft speak to reporters where Belichick announced he is leaving the team during a press conference at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, on January 11, 2024. Belichick, the NFL mastermind who has guided the New England Patriots to a record six Super Bowl titles as head coach, is parting ways with the team after 24 seasons. (Photo by Joseph Prezioso / AFP) (Photo by JOSEPH PREZIOSO/AFP via Getty Images) (JOSEPH PREZIOSO/AFP via Getty Images)
New England Patriots Press Conference FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS - JANUARY 11: Head coach Bill Belichick (L) of the New England Patriots speaks to the media as owner Robert Kraft looks on (R) during a press conference at Gillette Stadium on January 11, 2024 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. Belichick announced he is stepping down as head coach after 24 seasons with the team. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) (Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
Chiefs Patriots Football New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick, center, stands in front of team owner Robert Kraft, left, and Jon Bon Jovi, right, prior to an NFL football game against the Kansas City Chiefs, Sunday, Dec. 17, 2023, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Michael Dwyer) (Michael Dwyer/AP)
FILE - New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft, left, talks to head coach Bill Belichick as their team warms up before an NFL football game against the New York Jets in East Rutherford, N.J., in this Monday, Oct. 21, 2019, file photo. Belichick never was one to spent wildly in free agency. But after watching Tom Brady celebrate another Super Bowl in another city, Belichick and his boss, Robert Kraft, had seen enough. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger, File)
AFC Championship - Pittsburgh Steelers v New England Patriots FOXBORO, MA - JANUARY 22: Robert Kraft, owner and CEO of the New England Patriots (L), and head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots look on after defeating the Pittsburgh Steelers 36-17 to win the AFC Championship Game at Gillette Stadium on January 22, 2017 in Foxboro, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) (Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
Robert Kraft, owner New England Patriots, head coach Bill Belichick and Tom Brady celebrate with the Lamar Hunt Trophy after defeating the Pittsburgh Steelers 36-17 on January 22, 2017 in Foxboro, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
Bill Belichick and Robert Kraft Bill Belichick and Robert Kraft
Bill Belichick and Robert Kraft Bill Belichick and Robert Kraft
Bill Belichick and Robert Kraft Bill Belichick and Robert Kraft
Patriots Belichick Football FILE - New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick, left, smiles as team owner Robert Kraft holds up the Vince Lombardi trophy during a Super Bowl victory parade in Boston, Tuesday, Feb . 8, 2005. The Patriots beat the Philadelphia Eagles 24-21 in Super Bowl XXXIX. Six-time NFL champion Bill Belichick has agreed to part ways as the coach of the New England Patriots on Thursday, Jan. 11, 2024, bringing an end to his 24-year tenure as the architect of the most decorated dynasty of the league’s Super Bowl era, a source told the Associated Press on the condition of anonymity because it has not yet been announced. (AP Photo/Michael Dwyer, File) (MICHAEL DWYER/AP)
Bill Belichick and Robert Kraft Bill Belichick and Robert Kraft
Bruschi pointed out that criticism of Belichick as a GM focuses on recent draft failures while ignoring the fact he picked and developed many star players who were integral to New England’s unprecedented run of success.
Belichick drafted guys like Hall of Famer Richard Seymour, future Hall of Famer Rob Gronkowski, Dont’a Hightower, Devin McCourty, Vince Wilfork, Julian Edelman, Asante Samuel, Logan Mankins, Stephen Gostkowski, new Patriots coach Jerod Mayo and others. Of course, there was Brady, picked in the sixth round in 2000.
“This man still knows how to win, how to win a lot and how to win for a long time so I don’t know how he doesn’t have a job,” Bruschi said.
Another knock against Belichick is his losing record without Brady.
The Patriots were 28-39 over the past four seasons after Brady went to Tampa Bay, won a Super Bowl and eventually retired. Overall, Belichick is 84-103 with only one playoff win without Brady over 29 seasons, including five in Cleveland.
“I don’t think there’s any question about what he would bring to the table and the benefit you would get from that kind of spark. He’s going to win,” Dungy said.
Belichick will turn 72 in April so his age coupled with the notion that he could retire after getting 15 more wins to break Shula’s career record may have contributed to the lack of interest from teams.
Sixty-year-old Jim Harbaugh was the oldest of the new head coaches hired. Quinn is 53. The other new coaches are between 36 and 45. Other high-profile coaches who were passed over include 72-year-old Pete Carroll, a Super Bowl winner, and Mike Vrabel, the 2021 NFL Coach of the Year.
“For all the young players coming into the league, if there’s any doubt how a 70-year-old man can coach football, those questions will be answered the very first week when Bill walks in there and talks to the team and tells them what he wants from them and shows them how to do it,” Bruschi said. “I’ve been in those meetings. It’s brilliance but it’s simplicity. You leave the meeting room thinking I know exactly what I have to do and how to get it done. That’s the way he coaches and that’s why he’s so good.”
Not good enough to get another job this season but don’t count Belichick out. When a team with a talented roster falls short next season — perhaps the Dallas Cowboys again — Belichick could come to the rescue.