Over the last few days, there have been reports circulating that New England’s Bill Belichick will be fired after the season.
I’ve had discussions with friends, family, and colleagues throughout the season and my stance on this hasn’t changed.
No, you do not fire Bill Belichick.
Belichick, arguably the greatest coach of all time who has led New England since 2000 shouldn’t be fired because of one disastrous season (yes, I admit it’s disastrous).
As Boston fans, we are very fortunate and – some would say – spoiled to have had an incredible dynasty, all while a certain No. 12 was at the helm.
It was inevitable that there would be speed bumps once Brady departed.
Just like if Brady stayed and Belichick left – there would be speed bumps!
But hanging six Super Bowl banners at Gillette Stadium and coaching two distinct dynasties in a 23-year period earns Belichick his respect.
If Belichick wants to leave New England, he has earned that right to leave; if he wants to stay, he has earned that right, too.
During a Wednesday press conference, Belichick was asked questions regarding his coaching future with the Patriots. With each response, he answered, “Getting ready for Kansas City.”
Here’s my take.
The conversation should be: can Belichick coach, but not be the general manager?
His recent draft picks haven’t panned out, and the Patriots haven’t re-signed a draft pick from the first three rounds since Duron Harmon, a 2013 third-rounder.
It’s not news to any Patriots fan that we haven’t drafted well over the years. And when you have Brady at quarterback, you can make do with misses in the draft.
But now, without a true quarterback, these missed draft picks hurt more, and more, and more.
I think of drafting N’Keal Harry over the likes of Deebo Samuel and A.J. Brown.
If Belichick decides to stay, then maybe relinquishing some of his say in the front office – so he can strictly focus on coaching – is what’s best for the franchise he loves so much.
Belichick is under contract for next season, so, in reality, a team would have to offer some compensation in a trade for the mastermind.
All in all, after the success he’s given to New England and the Patriots organization, let’s cut the guy some slack.
