In recent times, the football world has frequently used the phrase “end of an era” to describe significant changes. Nick Saban retired from his position in Alabama, Bill Belichick was forced out of New England, and Pete Carroll transitioned into an advisory role in Seattle. These championship coaches, who were once highly regarded, are now seen as outdated by many. Initially, it was anticipated that Belichick would return to the NFL sidelines in the upcoming season. However, being overlooked in this cycle likely signifies the end of “The Hoodie’s” career in the National Football League.
At nearly 72 years old (turning 72 in April), if Belichick takes this year off, he would be 73 by the time he returns to coaching in the fall of 2025. Many believe that the league surpassed him long ago, and he has failed to adapt. While Patriots fans are grateful for everything Belichick has done over the past 24 years (as he expressed his gratitude with a full-page ad in the Boston Globe), most feel that his departure coincided with Tom Brady’s departure.
In the past couple of years, the mystique that once surrounded Belichick and “The Patriot Way” has faded away in New England. The lack of attention he received during this coaching cycle confirms that the league has moved on from him.
Although it only takes one team, it seems unlikely that Belichick will return in ’25, considering his desire for full control like he had in New England. If he is willing to take a step back and solely focus on coaching, more franchises might express interest. However, if he insists on maintaining the same level of control, it is safe to say that the Hoodie era is over. We can now consider it a closed chapter.
There are only a few teams that may consider bringing in Belichick next year. He interviewed with the Atlanta Falcons in January, and it appeared that they would form a partnership. However, the deal fell through. After witnessing the collapse of the Patriots empire under Belichick in recent years, it is unlikely that any team would hand him the keys and full control over their organization.
Falcons owner Arthur Blank ultimately made a different choice and hired former Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Raheem Morris, who is younger and less accomplished than Belichick. Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, who needs his team to overcome the divisional round roadblock, decided to stick with Mike McCarthy, who has had little playoff success despite winning a Super Bowl and leading the Cowboys to 12 wins in three consecutive seasons.
Despite the expectations that McCarthy would be replaced after the 48-32 defeat against Green Bay in the wild card round, Jones chose to retain him, even with notable names like Belichick and Jim Harbaugh available.
With all the NFL head coaching positions now filled, Belichick finds himself on the outside looking in, which was unimaginable not long ago. It seems like the league has said, “we’re finished. Thank you for your service, but it’s time to move on.” Many people believe that he will make a comeback, but it is unlikely unless he joins a team that is ready to contend within the next 2-3 years.
If Nick Sirianni fails to turn things around in Philadelphia, there might be an opportunity for Belichick to be hired. McCarthy is still in Dallas, but without a contract extension, so there is a possibility for change in the future. If Mike Tomlin decides to step down after the next season, it is conceivable that the Steelers would at least consider reaching out to Belichick. Although they are not on the verge of a Super Bowl, they have some promising players, especially on defense.
Currently, it is challenging to identify many realistic options for Belichick to step back into coaching at the age of 72 after taking a year off. Hiring Belichick would come at a high cost, and he has earned the right to demand whatever he wants from any organization. However, this does not mean that organizations have to accept his terms, as evidenced by Atlanta’s refusal after multiple meetings. It also seems that Belichick is unwilling to relinquish the control and power he held for so long with the Patriots. Thus, it appears that the final chapter of the G.O.A.T.’s career has been written.