Patriots, Bill Belichick parting ways

The Patriots and HC Bill Belichick are mutually parting ways, according to multiple reports. That will end a run of 24 seasons, nine Super Bowl trips, and six titles. Of course, none of those championships came without QB Tom Brady on the field. ESPN's Adam Schefter reports that Belichick wants to continue coaching and that there will be interest. He singles out Atlanta as a potential landing spot. Washington has also been mentioned as a possibility for Belichick. We'd just like to see any team that hires Belichick give someone else control over player personnel. The Patriots' roster deteriorated post-Brady, especially on the offensive side. And the offensive skill-position players were often limited even throughout the glory years. As for what's left in New England, the Patriots should be looking for a new QB this offseason after benching Mac Jones for Bailey Zappe late in the year. The Pats could use pass-catching upgrades as well, though we'll see how much the salary cap and draft picks allow them to do. This isn't likely to be an offense that excites anyone in 2024, regardless of who arrives as the next coach.