Former New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick, one of the most successful coaches in NFL history with six Super Bowl titles, has been spending the 2024 season away from the sidelines after being let go by the Patriots following the 2023 season. Despite interviewing with several teams in the offseason, Belichick didn’t receive any coaching offers.
Instead, he has transitioned to the media world, making appearances on ESPN and other outlets.
However, rumors are swirling that Belichick may not stay away from coaching for long, especially if one of his former players gets his way. According to a report from Barstool Sports’ Kirk Minihane, new part-owner of the Las Vegas Raiders, Tom Brady, is allegedly pushing for Belichick to take over as the Raiders’ head coach.
“I’ll just say this, I won’t get specific,” Minihane said. “People have told me that Brady’s first move is gonna be to ask Bill Belichick to be the new coach of the Las Vegas Raiders. Two sources have told me that. Two high-up [sources] in the Patriots organization have told me that.”
The idea of a reunion between Brady and Belichick, who together dominated the NFL for two decades with the Patriots, has quickly set NFL fans abuzz. However, the rumor has been met with mixed reactions from fans.
RELATED: Report: Bill Belichick Allegedly Planning to Marry His 23-Year-Old Girlfriend
One fan expressed skepticism about Brady’s influence as a minority owner, saying, “This is ridiculous. Brady owns 5%. Let’s not act like he’s a majority owner here.” While Brady’s ownership stake gives him some influence, it’s unlikely that he alone would have the power to make such a significant coaching hire.
Others were more concerned about the Raiders’ current state and whether Belichick would be a good fit for the team. “I don’t think this would be ideal. Raiders need a QB and more before they become contenders. Belichick is old and needs to come into a ready-made situation,” one fan suggested, noting that the Raiders’ struggles go beyond coaching and may require a more comprehensive rebuild.
Some fans, however, were frustrated with the notion of the Raiders trying to recreate the Patriots’ dynasty. “STOP TRYING TO MAKE THE RAIDERS BE THE OLD PATRIOTS,” another fan shouted, reflecting concerns that bringing in Belichick might be an attempt to revive past glory instead of focusing on building a unique identity for the Raiders.
The Raiders are currently sitting at 2-4 on the season, and their roster has undergone significant changes, including the recent trade of star wide receiver Davante Adams. Despite Antonio Pierce being named the head coach after a successful stint as interim coach, the team seems to be struggling to find its footing.
If their performance continues to falter, speculation about a coaching change could intensify.
The question now is whether the Raiders will consider moving on from Pierce after the 2024 season and if Brady will indeed push for Belichick to take the reins in Las Vegas. While the idea of a Brady-Belichick reunion in a new setting is tantalizing, it remains to be seen if Belichick is interested in returning to coaching and whether the Raiders would be the right fit for his legendary but winding career.
For now, fans are left to wonder if this rumor will turn into reality, or if the idea of Brady and Belichick reuniting in Las Vegas is simply wishful thinking.