Several factors could have cooled Bill Belichick’s candidacy, including the New England Patriots legend’s age and desire for more control. But there may have been a unique point of contact between the Falcons and Atlanta.In a column published Friday, The Athletic’s Jeff Howe explained why Belichick didn’t immediately take a new coaching job after a remarkable 24-year run in Foxboro, Massachusetts.
An NFL insider explained what happened between Belichick and the Falcons, and it appeared the two sides had come to an agreement.”They were conducting a fact-finding mission to determine whether the organization’s power structure was aligned for success with Belichick, who is accustomed to having full control of football operations, while Falcons owner Arthur Blank reorganizes his structure leadership. It’s intact.” Howe wrote.
“Sources close to Belichick cited his frosty relationship with Falcons president Rich McKay as the main reason for deciding whether the two sides could work together.”The Falcons eventually signed Raheem Morris to replace Arthur Smith. Belichick saw the final door close on his 2024 coaching cycle last week when the Washington Chiefs hired Dan Quinn. The Commanders also considered Belichick for the job.
The future Pro Football Hall of Fame coach is expected to be in high demand next year, but Belichick may have to make some concessions to accommodate the situation.