Bill Belichick said goodbye to the New England Patriots at a brief farewell press conference on Thursday, but clearly indicated that he will remain in the NFL.
Belichick issued a brief statement at midday, hours after it was announced that his 24-year tenure as coach of the Patriots, during which he won six Super Bowls, was coming to an end.
He appeared alongside owner Robert Kraft, who stressed that there was no animosity or tension associated with the split.
“I'll always be a patriot.” “I'm excited to get back here,” Belichick said. “But at this point we will move on.” I'm excited about the future.
“There are so many beautiful memories and thoughts.” “I will always be a patriot and will always be very, very appreciative of the opportunity and support here.”
Bill Belichick said goodbye to the Patriots at a brief press conference on Thursday afternoon
Belichick appeared at the press conference alongside Patriots owner Robert Kraft
The 71-year-old Belichick appears ready to continue coaching in the NFL with another team
Belichick, known for his calm and dry demeanor, appeared to choke up a bit as he addressed the Patriots fan base that adores him.
“Lastly to the fans – the fans here are great, there are so many memories,” he said. “The farewells, the parades, the Sundays – I see the fans from here, wherever you meet them, and not just in New England, but they extend nationally and internationally in my travels.” It's amazing how far.
“I am very grateful for the support they have given me, my family and the team.”
Owner Robert Kraft said, “Coach Belichick will forever be celebrated as an icon here in New England.” He is the greatest coach of all time.
“I will always be a sentimental sports fan at heart.” So this is an emotional day for me. Some of my happiest and most memorable moments were celebrated with my family during Bill's time here.
“I realize it is an emotional day for many as it marks the end of an era that will always be celebrated in this region.”
Belichick is expected to continue coaching in the NFL rather than retiring at age 71.
He was linked to the vacant coaching position with the Atlanta Falcons this week.
Patriots owner Robert Kraft praised Belichick on Thursday as “the greatest coach of all time.”
And Kraft alluded to Belichick moving on when he said, “I will always wish him continued success, except when he faces our beloved Patriots.”
“Coach Belichick will forever be celebrated as a legendary sports icon here in New England and I believe he will be a first-ballot inductee as a Pro Football Hall of Famer.” Why? Because he is the greatest coach of all time, which makes the breakup so difficult.
“But we agreed that this is a step that is necessary at this time.”
Belichick is leaving the Patriots after a 4-13 season that ended with a home loss to the New York Jets on Sunday.