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NFL fans and pundits have spent weeks discussing Bill Belichick’s future with the New England Patriots. Yet the two sides already fortified his status.
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Belichick “quietly” signed a multi-year extension during the offseason.
Onlookers are perplexed by the major news staying private and the timing of Belichick’s new deal.
“It’s actually amazing how Belichick and the Patriots are two of the most covered, scrutinized, and talked about entities in the NFL and yet, nobody knew of this until Week 7 of the 2023 season,” Mike Miccoli said.
It’s actually amazing how Belichick and the Patriots are two of the most covered, scrutinized, and talked about entities in the NFL and yet, nobody knew of this until Week 7 of the 2023 season. https://t.co/FF5DuQmDts
— Mike Miccoli (@MikeMiccoli) October 22, 2023
“How the hell did Kraft think it was a good idea to extend Bill with how things were trending?? What are we doing??” Casey Baker of Binge Sports asked.
How the hell did Kraft think it was a good idea to extend Bill with how things were trending?? What are we doing?? https://t.co/akatcJYGze
— Casey Baker (@_CaseyBaker) October 22, 2023
“Malpractice by Robert Kraft,” radio host Nick Cattles declared. “I have so many questions.”
Malpractice by Robert Kraft. I have so many questions. https://t.co/aaEMZHOU7m
— Nick Cattles (@NickCRadio) October 22, 2023
“Kraft isn’t going to pay Bill to sit on Nantucket next year and do nothing,” Matt McCarthy of 98.5 The Sports Hub said.
Kraft isn’t going to pay Bill to sit on Nantucket next year and do nothing. https://t.co/OIQSH1uCry
— Matt McCarthy (@MattMcCarthy985) October 22, 2023
“If all parties intend to honor this contract, and that’s a big ‘if,’ you would hope Kraft and Belichick are aligned at the trade deadline and sell.” Patriots insider Andrew Callahan wrote. “The roster is hollowed out without a clear QB of the future. Do right by the franchise.”
If all parties intend to honor this contract, and that’s a big “if,” you would hope Kraft and Belichick are aligned at the trade deadline and sell.
The roster is hollowed out without a clear QB of the future. Do right by the franchise. https://t.co/naw1pjgV1r
— Andrew Callahan (@_AndrewCallahan) October 22, 2023
The Patriots finished 8-9 last season in a year shrouded in turmoil. Their offense ranked 26th after Belichick curiously brought back former defensive coordinator Matt Patricia to instruct Mac Jones and Co.
Things have gotten far worse since Belichick’s extension. New England has started 1-5 with the AFC’s worst point differential (-80). Jones has gone three straight losses without a passing touchdown, causing most spectators to believe the team must find a new long-term answer at quarterback.
A horrid start led many people to wonder if Belichick would retire — or if Kraft would delicately nudge him out the door — after the season. While an extension doesn’t entirely eliminate that possibility, it shows neither party was considering a split before the 2023 season.