The New England Patriots’ head coach, Bill Belichick, is facing job insecurity as the team prepares for a Week 10 game against the Indianapolis Colts in Frankfurt, Germany. If the Patriots lose to the Colts, it would mark their sixth loss in the last seven games, possibly prompting the team’s ownership to consider replacing Belichick, as reported by Ben Volin of the Boston Globe.
The Boston Globe’s report, published on Friday, suggests that it is no longer guaranteed that Belichick will remain as the team’s head coach for the rest of the season. Patriots owner Robert Kraft and the ownership group view the Germany game as crucial, considering the team’s slim chances of making the playoffs. A loss in that game could lead to Belichick’s removal.
Should Belichick be let go, Patriots inside linebackers coach Jerod Mayo is the favored candidate to serve as interim head coach. Belichick is aware of the speculations surrounding his future and has been evasive when asked about his job security, particularly after a recent loss to the Washington Commanders.
The Patriots’ disappointing season and their inability to secure a playoff spot, combined with the departure of Tom Brady, have raised questions about whether Belichick is the right person to lead the team. The team’s poor performance and mistakes in recent games have further fueled doubts.
Despite the team’s struggles, Belichick’s contract situation may complicate matters. It was recently revealed that he signed a lucrative multi-year extension in the offseason, making him one of the highest-paid coaches in the NFL. This contract could potentially require a significant payout if he were to leave or retire.
Kraft, the Patriots’ owner, has expressed frustration with the team’s post-Brady era performance, and there are signs that he may have given up on the 2023 season. This lack of confidence in the current season does not bode well for Belichick’s future with the team.
