FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) — After a 24-year tenure as the coach of the New England Patriots, Bill Belichick has agreed to part ways with the team. Belichick, who had a vision of building a sustained championship football team, walks away feeling proud of what he has accomplished. In a media availability with owner Robert Kraft, Belichick expressed his gratitude for the organization and his excitement for the future. The Patriots have not announced a replacement for Belichick at this time.
Belichick, 71, leaves behind a legacy as the architect of one of the most decorated dynasties in NFL history. During his tenure, the Patriots won six Super Bowl championships, nine AFC titles, and 17 division championships. Belichick thanked the fans, the players, and the staff members who have been a part of the organization. He acknowledged the role that players played in the team’s success, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to coach some of the greatest players in the game.
Owner Robert Kraft also spoke at the media availability, referring to his relationship with Belichick as a marriage that had come to an end. Kraft expressed pride in the 24-year partnership and credited Belichick for teaching him a lot. Belichick reciprocated the sentiment, acknowledging that they had exceeded their expectations together.
Belichick’s departure from the Patriots follows a disappointing season in which they ended with a 4-13 record, Belichick’s worst in his 29 seasons as an NFL head coach. Despite this, Belichick’s overall record with the Patriots stands at 333-178, including the playoffs. Belichick is just one victory shy of surpassing Don Shula as the coach with the most career victories.
There is speculation about who will replace Belichick as the head coach of the Patriots. Patriots linebackers coach Jerod Mayo and former Patriots player Mike Vrabel are among the potential candidates. Belichick had previously groomed offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels for the role, but McDaniels left to become the head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders. The search for Belichick’s replacement will be a significant decision for owner Robert Kraft.
Belichick’s departure comes just a day after another coaching great, Nick Saban, announced his retirement after winning seven college national championships. Saban had a close relationship with Belichick, as Belichick hired him as his defensive coordinator when he was the head coach of the Cleveland Browns.
The Patriots’ recent struggles since Tom Brady’s departure have highlighted the importance of finding a stable long-term replacement at quarterback. Cam Newton, Brady’s initial replacement, did not live up to expectations, and Mac Jones, their 2021 first-round draft choice, struggled in his second season.
As Belichick moves on from the Patriots, his impact on the game of football is undeniable. Throughout his career, he has been celebrated for his ingenuity, attention to detail, and mastery of the NFL rule book. However, his legacy also includes two major cheating investigations that resulted in penalties for him and the team.
Belichick’s departure marks the end of an era for the New England Patriots. As the team looks to rebuild and find a new head coach, they will undoubtedly reflect on the incredible success they achieved under Belichick’s leadership. His contributions to the game of football and his place in NFL history will be remembered.