Rob Gronkowski: Belichick Still a 'Powerhouse' Despite Criticism for Patriots' Season

Bill Belichick may have received criticism for how the New England Patriots fared in his final four seasons without Tom Brady under center, but Rob Gronkowski still believes his former head coach is among the best in the NFL.

"I think, 100 percent, he's still the great Bill Belichick," Gronkowski said, per TMZ Sports. "No doubt about that."

Belichick and the Patriots parted ways this winter after 24 seasons and a 29-38 record over the last four years. He's coming off his worst season in New England as the team finished with a 4-13 record and missed the playoffs for the third time in the last four seasons.

The 71-year-old is now among the hottest head coaching candidates on the market this winter. He has already interviewed with the Atlanta Falcons and has a second interview with the franchise lined up this weekend, per NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.

Gronkowski, who spent nine seasons playing for Belichick in New England, added that he believes Belichick has the opportunity to again prove he's one of the greatest coaches of all time if he ends up with a team that has a solid roster.

"If he goes to a team with great players with great talent, he will be successful," Gronkowski said, "because he's still the powerhouse coach that we all have seen throughout the years."

Should Belichick end up in Atlanta, he would inherit a roster that includes wide receiver Drake London, tight end Kyle Pitts, running back Bijan Robinson and safety Jessie Bates III.

One question facing the Falcons this winter is who will be the quarterback in 2024 as Desmond Ridder was subpar in 2023. Once that is sorted out, Atlanta figures to be a team to watch next season.