Bill Belichick's next NFL move may need to fit one specific requirement
Bill Belichick, who spent 24 seasons with the New England Patriots, is reportedly being cautious about his next NFL coaching job.
The 71-year-old coach is one of a number of candidates to interview twice for the Atlanta Falcons since leaving the Patriots two weeks ago, despite other teams having head coach vacancies.
The Los Angeles Chargers, who have now agreed terms with Jim Harbaugh, were the only major market franchise with a vacancy. Despite rumours linking him to the Dallas Cowboys after their wild-card round loss to the Green Bay Packers, nothing came of it and Mike McCarthy was confirmed as returning for the 2024 season.
Belichick was initially seen as the top choice for the Atlanta job, regardless of any potential opening in Dallas. However, it now appears that several other candidates have come into the picture alongside Belichick.
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Panthers defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero and Los Angeles Rams defensive coordinator Raheem Morris have both had second interviews with the Falcons, with a number of other candidates reportedly set to meet with the organisation again.
For Belichick, Atlanta could be an escape from the "big-market media," which NBC reports he is keen to avoid after so many years in New England.
Having also spent 12 years with the New York Giants before a further three with the New York Jets. His only break from major markets during his coaching career was a five-year stint on the sidelines for the Cleveland Browns.
Almost 30 years after being sacked one week after the team announced it was becoming the Baltimore Ravens, he seemingly seeks a similar situation again.
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ORCHARD PARK, NEW YORK - DECEMBER 31: Head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots arrives prior to the game against the Buffalo Bills at Highmark Stadium on December 31, 2023 in Orchard Park, New York. The Bills won 27-21. (Photo by Rich Barnes/Getty Images) (No credit)NBC suggests that Belichick's desire to avoid reporters getting too close to team personnel is the reason behind his choice. As the New York Post put it, his "paranoia" is what is limiting his options.
NBC reported that the Cowboys and Eagles showed interest in Belichick earlier this month. However, it seems the feeling wasn't mutual, possibly influencing their decision to keep their current coaches.
Belichick values a clear chain of command. After all, he was not only the head coach but also the general manager of the Patriots for many years.
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