What fans have to say about Belichick and future of the Patriots

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (WLNE) — Now that the New England Patriots season is over, questions about head coach Bill Belichick and his future with the team remain top of mind.

Belichick said he is open to letting someone else handle general manager duties if he remains with the Patriots organization.

Belichick confirmed Monday morning during his season-ending press conference that he remains under contract, though he didn’t specify the length of its current terms.

As to possibly giving up his ‘final call’ on all personnel matters, Belichick said he is flexible if it benefits the entire organization.

The team’s 17-3 loss to the New York Jets on Sunday left them with a final record of 4-13, which is Belichick’s worst record in his 29-year NFL head coaching career.

Rhode Island Senator Jack Reed shared his reaction to the looming speculation.

“The Kraft family needs to sit down and listen to him, what he wants to do,” Reed said. “Seriously, if he wants to coach again, I would be very approving of that. If he decides it is time to go, he is leaving as the greatest coach in professional football.”

One Patriots fan thought it was time to move on from the Belichick era.

“I think we need to try a different approach, maybe a different team, a new game plan,” said Colin Felder, Providence. “Because obviously, what we have going on now is not working. Mac Jones is like getting a birthday card with no money in it.”

Other fans are thinking optimistically for the future.

“From my understanding, it sounds like he is open to changes,” said Colby Kingsbury, Pawtucket. “Which is big since he is the GM, and it sounds like he may be able to give that role to someone else as he gets older…take a little bit off his plate. If he does that, next year could be successful. One bad year doesn’t make a whole person’s career.”

“We love you,” Kingsbury added. “Patriots Nation loves you, and best for the future.”

The status of Belichick remains up in the air as he prepares to meet with team owner Robert Kraft about his future with the team.

That meeting is expected to take place this week.