Options running out for Bill Belichick’s coaching future

Bill Belichick appears to be running out of options if he is to continue as a coach in the National Football League in the short term, as the Atlanta Falcons, who had shown the most interest in hiring him, have opted for the services of Raheem Morris. Morris previously served as the Defensive Coordinator for the Los Angeles Rams.

Belichick’s 24 seasons with the New England Patriots will be remembered as extremely successful, of course, despite his last season with a losing record. Under his leadership, the team won the AFC East division 17 times and secured 6 Super Bowl victories (XXXVI, XXXVIII, XXXIX, XLIX, LI, and LIII), with Tom Brady as the superstar quarterback.

He concluded his tenure in Foxborough with a record of 296 victories and 133 defeats, encompassing both the regular season and playoffs.

Belichick’s options are dwindling

The Falcons were the sole team that had interviewed Belichick, and did so on two occasions. However, with the news of Morris, the available positions in the NFL appear to have come to an end.

No Belichick for Falcons, Panthers, Cowboys, Chargers

Another option that had been speculated was the Carolina Panthers, but it has been revealed that the position will be filled by Dave Canales. This marks Canales’ inaugural experience as a head coach, following his tenure as an offensive assistant with the Seattle Seahawks from 2010 to 2022 and as an offensive coordinator with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2023.

On a separate note, the Dallas Cowboys were also floated as a potential destination, especially after their surprising playoff elimination. Fans even flooded social media with requests directed at the team’s owner. However, it has been confirmed that Mike McCarthy will continue as the head coach at least for the upcoming season.

The Los Angeles Chargers have secured the services of Jim Harbaugh following his successful nine-year tenure in collegiate football, during which he led the Michigan Wolverines to their first national championship since 1948.

Commanders and Seahawks still open to Belichick

Just a few weeks ago it seemed as though he had plenty to choose from but that has changed quite remarkably.

Now, the two remaining options for Belichick are the Washington Commanders, who have a vacancy following the dismissal of Ron Rivera, and the position left open by Pete Carroll with the Seattle Seahawks, following his retirement announcement. If neither of these materialize then it could mean some time out of the game for the experienced coach before he returns.