Bill Belichick Reportedly 'Expressed Doubt' to Staff About Patriots Future

Bill Belichick's uncertain job security has been the biggest running story during the New England Patriots' forgettable 2023 season. Numerous rumors have popped throughout the year as the Pats' slide continues, including one that stated Belichick's fate has already been decided.

While the 71-year-old remains as difficult to read as ever, it appears the buzz around his job security has actually weighed on him in 2023.

Mike Giardi of the Boston Sports Journal reports Belichick "expressed doubt about his future in New England" to his coaching staff "at various points" over the past few weeks. Giardi noted that he doesn't think Belichick and owner Robert Kraft have sat down to discuss this partnership's prospects for 2024 (and beyond) just yet, though.

For the ever-present Belichick, a coach who doesn't like to talk too far ahead about anything, it's shocking to see him concerned about his job security like this. Of course, he certainly has reason to considering he's about to log his third losing record in four seasons, but Belichick's reserved approach usually masks any fears.

This kind of vulnerability is something new for the six-time Super Bowl champ, which speaks to the uncharted waters the Pats are in. It's clear something isn't working, and Belichick's struggles in terms of personnel are certainly one major weakness.

That puts him on the hot seat since he's coach and general manager. No one denies his excellence in the former, and it's encouraging to see the team still fighting for Belichick despite the year being lost. But his struggles in the latter role might be grounds for a full split if he doesn't want to relinquish some of his power.

It's obvious this offseason is leading to some kind of big change. It remains to be seen if Belichick, as coach or GM, survives when the dust has settled.

In other Patriots news: