Bill Belichick leaving the New England Patriots was surprising, even if it seemed inevitable. However, what caught everyone off guard was him not landing a head coaching job this offseason. While that might shock some, don’t be surprised if the greatest coach in NFL history is back on the sidelines next season.
Belichick isn’t acting like someone ready for retirement. Instead of relaxing on a golf course or spending time fishing, he’s busy with TV appearances, commercials, and breaking down games in real-time on the “ManningCast.” He’s everywhere right now, and it’s clear—Belichick isn’t done coaching. If the right opportunity comes along in 2025, he’s coming back. Here’s a look at some potential landing spots for the eight-time Super Bowl winner.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Sitting at 0-3 after a brutal Monday night loss to the Buffalo Bills, the Jacksonville Jaguars are in crisis mode. Despite his hefty contract, Trevor Lawrence looks like a middle-of-the-road quarterback. Doug Pederson’s postgame press conferences aren’t exactly inspiring confidence, either.
Trent Baalke, their general manager, hasn’t helped matters, and his decision-making is being questioned. A decade ago, Baalke played a part in Jim Harbaugh’s exit, leading the San Francisco 49ers into chaos. Now, Shad Khan, the Jaguars’ owner, might want to take a closer look at Baalke’s work.
Is it Bill Belichick Time in Jacksonville?!
YAY or NAY?#DUUUVAL #Jaguars #Belichick pic.twitter.com/gzCkKB5ffB
— TheJagBros (@TheJagBros) September 27, 2024
Enter Belichick. Jacksonville could offer him the control he craves, a quarterback with untapped potential and defensive talent to work with. Plus, Khan’s patient ownership style aligns perfectly with what Belichick looks for in a franchise. In a division that hasn’t made the leap many expected, the Jaguars could be an ideal landing spot for Belichick.
Dallas Cowboys
If anyone is looking at the odds, Dallas is probably the favorite. The Cowboys present an intriguing option, especially since Bill Parcells successfully worked with Jerry Jones back in the early 2000s, guiding Dallas to the playoffs twice with subpar quarterbacks like Quincy Carter, Vinny Testaverde, and Drew Bledsoe.
Bill Belichick’s connection to Parcells might influence his decision here, as two of his Super Bowl wins came while serving as the defensive coordinator under Parcells. The Cowboys already have key pieces like Dak Prescott, CeeDee Lamb, and Micah Parsons locked into long-term deals, making them an appealing roster.
Mike McCarthy, Dallas’ current head coach, is feeling the heat. If the Cowboys lose to the New York Giants on Thursday night, McCarthy could be on the way out. Belichick stepping into a role with a ready-made roster and a supportive front office could be a win-win.
New York Giants
The New York Giants could be another destination for Bill Belichick, especially with rumors of locker-room issues under current head coach Brian Daboll. The team doesn’t have a franchise quarterback right now, but a bad season could land them a high draft pick in a strong QB class. Belichick’s history with the Giants runs deep, and his presence could reignite the franchise’s success.
John Mara, the Giants’ owner, has been more involved in recent years, which could cause friction. However, he did give general manager Joe Schoen the flexibility to let star running back Saquon Barkley test free agency. If Belichick returns to New York, he’d likely have more control over football operations, something he values highly. Under his leadership, the Giants’ defensive line could be a dominant force, and with the right quarterback and offensive pieces, they could turn things around quickly.
Chicago Bears
While a longer shot, the Chicago Bears could offer an intriguing option for Bill Belichick. The team’s struggles to start 2024 haven’t done the current regime any favors. Belichick recently discussed the Bears during a ManningCast, highlighting their offensive line issues and hinting that their investment in wide receivers might have contributed to the problem.
Belichick may not have expressed his feelings about Caleb Williams, the top quarterback prospect, but the idea of coaching a generational talent could be appealing. The Bears have a defense that, under Belichick’s guidance, could return to dominance. The NFC North is proving to be a tough division, but if the Bears falter badly this season, bringing in Belichick might be the bold move they need.
Cincinnati Bengals
This is the longest shot, but it’s still worth considering. The Cincinnati Bengals are 0-3, and things aren’t looking good for Zac Taylor. The Bengals have shown patience with coaches, as Marvin Lewis held the job for over a decade. But if the Bengals continue to struggle, particularly with a franchise quarterback like Joe Burrow, ownership may feel pressure to make a change.
Belichick would likely find Cincinnati’s situation appealing, especially with a top-tier quarterback like Burrow. The defense has regressed, and Belichick could help them turn things around. While the Bengals haven’t had many coaching changes over the years, the combination of Burrow and a disappointing season might be enough to put them in the market for a coach of Belichick’s caliber.
Wherever Bill Belichick lands next, it’s clear that his coaching career isn’t over. Whether it’s turning around a struggling franchise like the Jaguars or Cowboys, or stepping into a historic role with the Giants or Bears, Belichick will have options. The only question left is: which sideline will he stand on in 2025?
