Bill Belichick’s illustrious run with the New England Patriots is reportedly likely to end at the end of this season.
There is speculation that owner Robert Kraft will fire Belichick this season. The Patriots enter Sunday’s Week 10 contest against the Indianapolis Colts in Frankfurt, Germany with a disappointing 2-7 record.
Dianna Russini of The Athletic spoke to multiple people familiar with Belichick and Kraft, who said that they don’t expect a coaching change this season. However, Russini’s sources think the most likely outcome is a “mutual parting” after the season:
“Speculation continues to grow about the end of the partnership between the Patriots and Belichick. In talking to those who have spent time around the Patriots organization and understand the dynamics between team owner Robert Kraft and Belichick, I don’t expect anything to be determined with so much season remaining. But if people I talk to had to bet, their money is on a mutual parting of the ways at the end of the season.”
This outcome makes the most sense for both parties. Belichick is the most accomplished head coach in NFL history and led the organization to six Super Bowls championships. So it seems fair that the two sides simply part ways rather than have Kraft formally fire Belichick.
If he leaves the Patriots, Belichick will immediately become the top name available on the coaching market.
