After 24 seasons in New England, Bill Belichick has many reasons to be thankful.
The former Patriots coach wrote a heartfelt note ‘to Patriots fans everywhere’ in a full-age ad in Sunday’s edition of the Boston Globe, expressing his appreciation for their support throughout his tenure – which included a record six Super Bowl victories.
‘Nowhere in America are pro sports fans as passionate as in New England and for 24 years, I was blessed to feel your passion and power,’ Belichick wrote. ‘The Patriots are the only NFL team representing SIX states but in reality, Patriots Nation knows no borders.’
‘Six times, you packed Boston by the millions for parades that were truly a two-way expression of gratitude and love. The images from those days are burned in my memory,’ he added.
Belichick even took an opportunity to poke a little fun at himself: ‘You may even have enjoyed my fashion sense and press conferences, or maybe you just tolerated them. I loved coaching here and, together, we experienced some amazing moments.’
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Belichick, 71, officially parted ways with the Patriots on Jan. 11 after a 4-13 campaign – his worst in 24 seasons with the organization.
His future in coaching remains unclear. He interviewed for the Atlanta Falcons job that ultimately went to Raheem Morris.
Since then, speculation has centered around some NFL teams whose coaches will be on the hot seat next season. There’s also a possibility he could join his former Super Bowl-winning quarterback and make the move to television.
It’s not like he doesn’t have the resume: In addition to those six Super Bowl trophies, Belichick also owns a Sports Emmy for his work with NFL Films and NFL Network on 2019’s ‘NFL 100 All-Time Team’ series.