The New England Patriots ended their 2023 season, and perhaps the Bill Belichick era, with a 17-3 loss to the New York Jets. In an unsurprising turn for anyone who’s followed the head coach, he was mum about his future expectations.
During the post-game press conference, via ESPN’s Mike Reiss, Belichick said he’ll conduct his annual end-of-year meeting with owner Robert Kraft. He wouldn’t comment any further about plans to coach beyond this season.
Bill Belichick: I’ll address questions about the game; anything about the future, I’ll meet with Robert Kraft, like I always do. … disappointed in the season. pic.twitter.com/WsJWHbrdzL
— Mike Reiss (@MikeReiss) January 7, 2024
Having joined New England in 2000, Belichick is easily the league’s longest-tenured head coach. He’s won six Super Bowls and is second on the league’s all-time coaching wins leaderboard (when including playoff games) behind Don Shula.
However, the Patriots are 22-29 with one playoff appearance in three seasons since Tom Brady’s departure. New England finished last in scoring this season, and those woes were on full display when mustering 119 total yards, seven sacks, and two turnovers on a snow day at Gillette Stadium.
The Patriots had won 15 games against the Jets, who appointed Belichick their replacement for Bill Parcells 24 years ago. He lasted one day before resigning and taking New England’s job.
Heading into 2023, few would have ever envisioned the Patriots moving on from Belichick until he retired. Yet it’s now looking like a feasible reality.
FOX’s Jay Glazer said Sunday morning that he doesn’t expect Belichick to return next season. He believes the biggest question is whether he gets fired or parts ways with New England amicably.
Belichick’s meeting with Kraft could determine if their working relationship is ending.