Robert Kraft Explains Why Patriots Didn’t Explore Trading Bill Belichick

New England and the legendary coach parted ways on Thursday morning after 24 seasons.

The New England Patriots and longtime coach Bill Belichick parted ways on Thursday after 24 seasons, which left NFL fans curious as to why the team decided not to look into trade options for the coach. Belichick was technically under contract with the Patriots for one more year, and thus could have been seen as an asset to move.

Patriots owner Robert Kraft gave a heartfelt answer, saying that he didn’t think it was right for Belichick to be traded after his time and success in New England.

“I guess if you look at this as a transaction—he is so valuable and how could we extract something—I didn’t think that was right,” Kraft said. “I didn’t think it was right for Tom Brady. He gave us 20 years. And I don’t think it’s right for Bill. I think each of them earned the right to be in a position where they should do what’s right for [them], given what they have done for this franchise.”

Kraft acknowledged that people may “criticize” him for not exploring the trade value of Belichick, a six-time Super Bowl winning coach, but was ultimately at peace with his decision.

Belichick is expected to land on a different NFL team before the 2024 commences. A few spots have quickly become favorites to hire Belichick, such as the Atlanta Falcons or the Los Angeles Chargers.

As for the Patriots’ open position, New England linebackers coach Jerod Mayo began as an early favorite for the role.