Rumor: Belichick Makes Decision on Future as Patriots Coach
There are several options for the New England Patriots to construct the end of Bill Belichick's legendary career in Foxboro.
Owner Robert Kraft could outright fire him. He could agree to a mutual "parting of ways." He could negotiate a trade for the future Hall-of-Fame coach, thereby recouping assets in exchange.
The ball - albeit a hot potato, considering Belichick's stature - is clearly in Kraft's court. But ... what if the coach wants to stay?
Cred: Boston Globe
According to a story by Ben Volin of the Boston Globe, Belichick indeed would like to remain as coach of the Patriots into 2024 and beyond.
"I’m told Belichick doesn’t want to leave New England," Volin writes. "But he doesn’t control his fate. Kraft does.”
Belichick has already linked to the Los Angeles Chargers, who last week fired both their head coach and general manager. And there persistent connections to the Dallas Cowboys, though they are on the verge of their third consecutive playoff season under Mike McCarthy.
The 71-year-old notoriously grumpy Belichick has consistently sidestepped questions about his job, this week telling reporters to "Ask Mr. Kraft."
“Nothing’s changed,” Belichick said on his Monday morning radio show this week. "We’ve got Denver this week, and we’ll do all we can to get the team ready to play well against Denver.”
The Patriots are only 28-37 and without a playoff win since Tom Brady left after the 2019 season. But Belichick did lead them to a record six Super Bowls during their unprecedented 20-year dynasty.
A messy situation could become even stickier for Kraft if indeed Belichick will only leave the Patriots against his legendary will.
