After relieving Bill Belichick of head coaching duties, Patriots owner Robert Kraft must search for a new head coach for the first time in over 20 years.
Speaking to the media on Thursday, Kraft explained what he’s looking for in a new head coach. He made it clear that he wants someone who can get the team back to the playoffs and win.
“We’re looking for someone who can help us get back to the playoffs and win. Believe me, after my family, this is really one of the two most important assets in my life. And I am very upset when we don’t win games, and it carries the whole week,” Kraft said.
Fans are already speculating that he’s referring to a proven postseason winner. If so, that could certainly narrow the field and effectively eliminate the many young assistants who are looking for their first coaching job.
Robert Kraft on his next coach: “We’re looking for someone who can help us get back to the playoffs and win. Believe me, after my family, this is really one of the two most important assets in my life. And I am very upset when we don’t win games, and it carries the whole week.”
— Jonathan Jones (@jjones9) January 11, 2024
The most natural pick that most people are suggesting is former Tennessee Titans coach Mike Vrabel. In six seasons with the Titans, Vrabel had four winning seasons and made the playoffs three times, reaching the AFC Championship Game in 2019.
But there are other options such as Dan Quinn and Pete Carroll, though Carroll would probably be loath to take the job after his previous tenure with the team in the 1990s.
Who will be the Patriots’ next head coach?