NFL
Belichick no longer coach of the Patriots after 24 years
Bill Belichick is no longer coach of the New England Patriots. photo
© Federico Gambarini/dpa
After 24 years it’s over. Coaching legend Bill Belichick is leaving the New England Patriots. It is not yet clear what will happen next for the 71-year-old.
The American football players of the New England Patriots and their long-time successful coach Bill Belichick is going their separate ways after 24 years. As the NFL club announced at an eight-minute media event, the 71-year-old’s time with the team from the US state of Massachusetts is coming to an end.
“I’m grateful to have been able to coach here for 24 years. We’ve accomplished more than I could ever imagine,” said Belichick, adding: “I’m proud to have coached some of the best players in history. I I will treasure these memories for the rest of my life.”
Belichick won the Super Bowl six times with the Patriots, making him the most successful coach in NFL history. But since the departure of star quarterback Tom Brady in 2020, things no longer went as desired and a sporting decline followed. Owner Robert Kraft and Belichick “agreed” on the decision to separate in a conversation, Belichick said.
Patriots with worst record since 1992
In the current season, the Patriots won only four of 17 games, suffered their worst record since 1992 and missed qualifying for the playoffs. After taking office in 2000, the exceptional coach won their first title with the Patriots in 2001, and the last one came in 2018.
With 333 wins in the NFL, Belichick is just behind record holder Dan Shula (347). It seems possible that he will secure this record, as according to media reports from the USA he could soon be working for another team. The Los Angeles Chargers, Atlanta Falcons and Washington Commanders are considered possible candidates. “I’m really looking forward to the future,” said Belichick without being more specific. Questions from journalists to the coach and Kraft were not permitted at the appointment.