When it comes to New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick, he comes across as a man fixated on precision. Additionally, he has also asked his players to simply do their job. In the 2020 season, he has been presented a challenge. As the Patriots currently sit at 6-7. they have already lost their streak of division titles. Furthermore, they probably won’t make the postseason for the first time since 2008.
It’s fair to say that the number of players that opted out this season play a lot towards what has transpired on the field. Furthermore, two of his soon to be Hall of Famers currently have the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the NFC Playoff picture. Tom Brady and Rob Gronkowski have not made Tampa Bay an instant contender, but given the situation, they seem to be just fine.
As for their former head coach, he did have a blessing in signing Cam Newton. Unfortunately, while Belichick is exceptional as a head coach, his general managing skills have lacked. Specifically at the wide receiver position where the talent is thin. Julian Edelman is currently not playing and first round draft pick N’Keal Harry is being outshined by the others taken after him.
Defensively, the team has been productive. Yet against the Rams, the same franchise that New England captured their 1st and 6th trophies against, they looked like a group that was victimized by a team seeking revenge. Given his resume, it’s hard pressed to say that the 2020 season is likely the most difficult season for Belichick.
Head Coach Bill Belichick and the Patriots Need a Complete Reboot this Offseason
Getting rid of a six-time champion is both ludicrous and unreasonable. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for the quarterback. Newton has been a strong leader and has said all the right things. In the NFL, speaking is one action while production is another.
The Patriots are likely to miss the postseason barring any major miracles and collapses within the AFC. The roster is getting up in age and will likely need replacing at other positions which brings forth free agency and the draft. With cap space at their disposal, New England is likely to make a move in free agency if they choose. The draft however, will be a different story.
A number of quarterbacks are expected to be picked at the top of the draft. The top two however, will not be available by the time New England ends up on the clock. Quarterback will be a priority and a player such as Zach Wilson of BYU or even Kyle Trask of Florida might be the one chosen. If New England chooses a defensive player, an edge rusher could be in play such as Pittsburgh’s Patrick Jones II.
For the offensive line, someone such as Alex Leatherwood of Alabama may still be on board. Given Bill Belichick’s relationship with Nick Saban and the success of Dont’a Hightower, it would be a wise move. Ultimately, Belichick is the boss and he has an obligation to fulfill. This season unfortunately, like his first season at 5-11 in 2000, will go down as one of if not the most difficult of his illustrious coaching career.
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