At this point, it would be a surprise if Bill Belichick returns to the Patriots for the 2024 season. There have already been countless reports about the two sides going their separate ways this offseason.
While the Patriots could outright fire Belichick once this season is over, it’s possible they make a trade instead.
Tom Curran of NBC Sports Boston believes Patriots owner Robert Kraft may try to create a “bidding war” for Belichick. After all, the legendary coach is under contract through 2024.
If the Patriots are hell-bent on trading Belichick, that could actually delay their own search for a new coach.
“That’s three weeks less that the new coach has to prepare the team,” Curran said, via Pro Football Talk. “Three weeks less that there is a personnel department with a clearly defined vision for 2024.”
Patriots reportedly might be trying to set up a “bidding war” for Bill Belichick. Again, however, Belichick has no reason to go along with that approach. https://t.co/DL01GU1ECV
— ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) December 20, 2023
As for Belichick’s trade value, Jeff Howe of The Athletic recently spoke to three NFL executives who believe the six-time Super Bowl champion could fetch a first-round pick in return.
The Patriots will need all the draft picks they can get if they’re going to commit to a full rebuild.