From Debbie (@Dinardismum):
Debbie, I don’t think Patriots owner Robert Kraft outright fires Bill Belichick. But I also don’t think Kraft is pleased with the state of his team, so I certainly think there could be moves he makes that hasten Belichick’s departure from the organization.
What could lead to those moves, I believe, is actually right in front of the Patriots now.
The losses of Matthew Judon and Christian Gonzalez, to me, will seriously test the depth of what I believe is a very good defense. A slip, which would be natural and understandable, could wind up putting pressure on the offense to carry its weight. That’s where the team’s attempts at upgrading the skill positions, and negligence in addressing the offensive tackle position could show up.
A lot of people are focused on Mac Jones. I get it. He hasn’t been great, and it’s fair to question just how limited he is—Sunday, we got a look at how it looks when he has to carry the team. But, to me, the problem is larger than the quarterback. And, again, if Kraft feels like it’s really dire, maybe he forces a restructuring to empower and or add to the scouting department. Which could cause Belichick to throw his hands up and walk.
I know a lot needs to happen to force Belichick’s departure. But if things don’t get better, I don’t think such a scenario playing out is all that unrealistic.
