New England Patriots to make history as Bill Belichick leaves?
Bill Belichick on Thursday confirmed his departure from the New England Patriots after a remarkable tenure spanning 24 seasons, during which the franchise secured six Super Bowl titles. Patriots owner Robert Kraft emphasized that the parting of ways with Belichick was characterized as an 'amicable' decision, marking the conclusion of the 2023 season.
The landscape of the NFL might witness a significant shift if the New England Patriots, along with several other teams, make history by appointing a Black non-interim head coach—a move unprecedented for the franchise. Jerod Mayo emerges as a potential candidate to bring about this change in New England.
Kraft said he will quickly shift toward finding a new coach, with inside linebackers coach Jerod Mayo handling the coaching duties to start the offseason.
«We're looking for someone who can help us get back to the playoffs and win,» Kraft said. «Believe me, after my family, this is one of the most important assets in my life. I promise you I'll be focused to do the best we can do to put ourselves in the best long-term position to win for many years.»
The Patriots were 4-13 in 2023 after going 8-9 in 2022. Kraft said he knew something «wasn't right,» but needed to discuss with Belichick whether it was coaching or personnel.
Belichick needs just 15 wins to surpass Don Shula's all-time record of 347 in the regular season and playoffs and could have options about where to go if he wants to go after that record.
There are already seven other coaching openings outside of New England. The Raiders, Chargers and Panthers fired coaches during the season and the postseason changes have already begun. The Atlanta Falcons
