The New England Patriots finished the 2022 season with an 8-9 record, missing the playoffs for the second time in the past three seasons.
They have struggled to find consistent success since the departure of Tom Brady, especially at the quarterback position.
The Patriots’ lackluster finish has led many to question what this team needs, including the discussion of a potential coaching shift.
As Adam Schien said in a recent segment of the NFL on CBS, “This is going to be the last year [Bill Belichick] coaches in New England” if they don’t make the playoffs.
If Bill Belichick and the Patriots miss the playoffs this year, would it be his last year in New England?@AdamSchein says yes 👀 pic.twitter.com/yONnVUZNnW
— NFL on CBS 🏈 (@NFLonCBS) August 2, 2023
Belichick is often credited with the development of Tom Brady, and many consider him a top coach in NFL history.
However, even some of the league’s best coaches have gone through dry spells.
The NFL continues to be a “What have you done for me lately?” league.
It doesn’t matter the career output of a coach or player.
If their team falters in production, it doesn’t take long for them to be on the hot seat.
Not making the playoffs indicates that something within the organization has fallen short.
If the front office believes Belichick is the problem, his days could be numbered.
The AFC East has gotten stronger throughout the offseason, giving Belichick and the Patriots worse odds to make the playoffs.
In a make-or-break year, the Patriots will need to figure out a way to win.
They start the 2023 season with games against the Philadelphia Eagles, Miami Dolphins, and New York Jets.
Will they find a way to start the season strong?
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