Former New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick, one of the most successful figures in NFL history, is reportedly “very surprised” that no NFL teams have reached out to discuss head coaching opportunities. Pro Football Talk’s Mike Florio revealed that, despite three current NFL vacancies—the New York Jets, New Orleans Saints, and Chicago Bears—none have made contact with the 72-year-old coaching legend.
Uncertainty Around NFL Interest
Florio clarified that while no teams with current vacancies have approached Belichick, it’s possible that teams with head coaches still in place might be considering him. “It’s not known with certainty that there has been no contact from teams that have yet to fire their coaches,” Florio noted. “Regardless, there’s no clear connection between Belichick and a potential vacancy for now.”
Belichick, who parted ways with the Patriots in early 2024 after a challenging season, had reportedly sought to take over the Atlanta Falcons but failed to secure the position.
Now, with no apparent NFL opportunities on the horizon, he is exploring an unexpected avenue: college football.
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College Football Beckons
Belichick is currently in talks with the University of North Carolina about their head coaching vacancy, according to ESPN. Discussions are ongoing, with a resolution expected by the end of the week. This potential pivot to college football has caught many by surprise, given Belichick’s storied NFL career and limited experience in the college ranks.
Still, the move may make sense for a coach eager to return to the sidelines in 2025. According to The Athletic’s Diana Russini, if UNC extends an offer, Belichick is expected to accept.
The Tar Heels are looking to rebuild after parting ways with longtime coach Mack Brown, and Belichick’s unparalleled football acumen could provide the program with a significant boost.
Former Patriots Weigh In
Despite the ongoing talks, some of Belichick’s former players are skeptical about his fit in the college game. Patriots legends Tom Brady, Julian Edelman, and Rob Gronkowski all expressed doubts, particularly when it comes to the demanding nature of college recruiting.
“I think there’s a lot of things he could do,” Brady said of his former coach. “And obviously he’s tremendous—even showing his personality. But getting out there on the recruiting trail and dealing with all these college kids? That would be frightening.”
Gronkowski echoed similar sentiments, joking that Belichick’s no-nonsense approach might clash with the unpredictable dynamics of college recruitment.
A New Chapter?
While Belichick’s lack of immediate NFL interest is surprising, it may reflect changing attitudes toward veteran coaches in a league increasingly focused on younger, innovative minds.
For Belichick, the challenge of returning to a winning program, whether in the NFL or college, could provide the spark for a new chapter in his legendary career.
Whether on the recruiting trail in Chapel Hill or back on an NFL sideline, one thing is certain: Bill Belichick’s name will continue to be part of the football conversation. The question now is where the next stage of his coaching journey will unfold.
