GETTY
Belichick first started working for the Patriots in 1996 but left for the Jets after just one season before returning to take up the head coach role in 2000.
Since then, the Tennessee native has overseen the greatest period of success in the franchise’s history, winning his first Super Bowl in 2001 before adding four more and tonight, a potential sixth.
However, ESPN reporter Dianna Russini revealed earlier today that the potential retirement of both Belichick and long-term quarterback and ally Brady could come in the aftermath of tonight’s game.
But fellow ESPN journalist Adam Schefter then refuted the claim.
“The sense with Belichick is, he is expected back in New England in 2018,” Schefter said.
Brady meanwhile also appears to show no signs of slowing down, although Schefter let slip a crucial detail about his future.
“He would be 41 years old next season. His wife, Gisele, is constantly after him to retire,” Schefter added.
“How many more does he want to win?
“The thing with Tom Brady is he wants to prove that someone can play at an elite level into his mid-40s.
“That is his goal. Most people believe right now that he will be back.”
However, the departure of Jimmy Garoppolo, traded to the San Franciso 49ers earlier this season, would appear to indicate that any post-Brady plans have a later start date than tomorrow.
The 26-year-old was the obvious replacement at quarterback for the Patriots and if Brady were planning a departure, it seems unlikely the New England hierarchy would have got rid of him.
And as for Belichick’s own future, the 65-year-old remains under contract for a number of years but will reportedly meet with owner Robert Kraft to discuss plans once the season has concluded.
