Feb 5, 2017; Houston, TX, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) celebrates with Patriots head coach Bill Belichick after winning Super Bowl LI at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
NFL: Super Bowl LI-New England Patriots vs Atlanta Falcons
NEW ENGLAND — There are plenty of people who are surprised that Bill Belichick isn’t going to be a NFL coach this season.
Just asked his longtime quarterback Tom Brady
On his Let’s Go! podcast, the former Patriots signal caller was asked by co-host Jim Gray whether he was surprised that Belichick didn’t land a head-coaching this offseason.
“I don’t know the criteria for hiring coaches. I’ve never been a part of it. I’m surprised that the greatest coach ever doesn’t have a job, absolutely. But, you know, I’m surprised (about) a lot of things in the NFL.”
Entering the NFL offseason, eight teams had openings (including the Patriots) and all passed on arguably the greatest coach in the history of the sports.
Belichick was linked to the Atlanta Falcons’ job, having interviewed twice, including a one-on-one meeting with team owner Arthur Blank. But the team elected to fill the position by Rams defensive coordinator Raheem Morris.
That means that — as things stand now — when Week 1 rolls around it will be the first time Belichick isn’t a head coach for the first time since the 1999 NFL season.
Perhaps Belichicks age (he turns 72 in Aprils) played a part. Or maybe he wanted more control then teams were willing to give. Who really knows. But one thing is for sure – the man considered by many to be the best coach in NFL history will not have a job this season.
