Fresh from his yearly postseason break in Nantucket, Bill Belichick graced fans and reporters with his presence during a conference call this afternoon. It’s been the first time we’ve been able to hear from the HC since the Draft in April. Let’s recall what’s happened since we last heard from Bill.
Firstly, James Develin’s decision to retire in late April, the shock Cam Newton signing, and more recently, the six players who decided to opt-out of the upcoming season.
Players weren’t the only changes, this past week the team announced it’s coaching staff adjustments for the new campaign, one of which included Bill’s son Brian, who has been promoted from assistant coach, to take over the safeties position.
I can’t wait for the envy in teams to grow, it’s hard enough planning to get the upper hand on one Belichick, let alone three.
So what were the conference call talking points?
Introductory Remarks
Bill welcomed the media contingent and said the organization had moved quickly over the last few weeks implementing new protocols to ensure the facilities were safe for players and staff.
He was clear that the number one priority was safety for players, and that he was pleased with the progress over recent weeks, now he’s looking forward to getting into camp.
Some good news to hear was that this upcoming Monday (08/03), the team is moving into the first phase of the offseason program. This includes newly acquired players and rookies being able to meet their new coaches and teammates.
Player Opt-Outs
The first media question Belichick took was about the six players who decided to opt-out of the upcoming season.
I talked to those guys and they explained their situation. They had to make the decision that was best for them and I totally respect and support it 100%.
Not that I expected anything less, but it was still nice to hear BB publicly back the players and support them, it echoes the point further that some things are just bigger than football.
The Subway Commercial
We were all baffled a few weeks back when an image surfaced of Bill enjoying a Subway sandwich on what looked to be a video set for an advertisement commercial.
Fear not, we got our answer, and it was a pleasant surprise, Bill said the partnership was for his foundation to help provide further support for sports across all levels which have been impacted by COVID-19.
Bill looked joyful as he talked about the commercial, but also acknowledged he was going to be a target for the rookie shows during camp.
If you were curious what type of Sandwich Bill goes for, he simply referred to it as “one of those super-duper’s or whatever”
Cam Newton And The QB Position
Bill was quite vague on this one, not a surprise I know. He discussed the mutual interest between Cam and the Patriots and how it was a positive opportunity for them to work together.
On the QB position as a whole, Bill made it clear that there is a long way to go and everyone will get an opportunity to compete, he also went on to say this goes for every position, not just QB’s.
Troy Brown
Some slight news, Bill discussed Troy Brown’s new coaching position looking after RB’s and KR’s. He said Brown would also be assisting slot receivers alongside his new duties.
A small question that appeared this week now answered, it sounds like Brown will be multi-tasking somewhat this year.
No Preseason Games
A topic that brought along intrigue, how the team would structure its camp schedule without any preseason games.
Bill compared this year’s changes for camp to how college teams prepare for a new season. He also said the organization would need to take advantage of practice opportunities with a mix of competition and preparation so that the players can be ready for the regular season.
You can watch the full conference call here.
For me, the first HC conference call back from the break really starts the excitement for preseason, so stay tuned for all of our content, because camp is just around the corner!
Oh, and look who just showed up…
