NFL Rumors: Bill Belichick Wants to Coach in 2025 After Not Landing Falcons Job

It doesn't appear that former New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick will land a new gig in 2024, but the eight-time Super Bowl champion still reportedly seeks a return to the sideline.

"Crazy as it sounds, Bill Belichick is unlikely to coach in the NFL in the 2024 season," Jonathan Jones of CBS Sports reported on Saturday. "It will be the first time since the 1974 season that Belichick has not been with an NFL team.

"But sources tell CBS Sports not to count the GOAT out for 2025. There remains a desire for Belichick to return to the sidelines…he just has to do it on his terms."

Belichick and the Patriots parted ways after 24 seasons together following the 2023 season. The 71-year-old, who previously won two Super Bowls with the New York Giants as their defensive coordinator, took home six more Lombardi Trophies with the Pats.

Belichick interviewed twice with the Atlanta Falcons, the only team that's reportedly spoken with him during his coaching cycle. The Falcons ultimately hired Los Angeles Rams defensive coordinator Raheem Morris.

The key phrase in Jones' report is "on his terms." The Falcons gig reportedly fell through because Belichick wanted wide-ranging power in Atlanta.

"The crossroads, according to a source familiar with the Falcons and Blank, was the element of realignment that would've needed to take place inside the Falcons to maximize a Belichick hire," Charles Robinson of Yahoo Sports reported.

"While Blank and Belichick apparently never discussed a detailed plan of how a linear chain of command under the head coach would work, the source said meetings with Blank crystalized Belichick's continued belief that the full scope of football operations, personnel and coaching should be under his decision-making umbrella."

Belichick had full control in New England as the team's head coach and de facto general manager.

Barring an unforeseen development, he won't be empowered in such a way in 2024.

However, it's certainly possible a refreshed Belichick could get that chance in 2025 after a year away from the game. For now, though, it appears the NFL's most accomplished head coach will have plenty of time to ponder his future.