New England Patriots have been one of the dominant teams in NFL history, and a lot of the credit goes to the stewardship of the general manager and head coach of the team, Bill Belichick. Having won multiple Super Bowls, he is widely known for his innovative approaches to the game, meticulous attention to detail, quick thinking, unconventional strategic mindset, and ability to bring out the best in each player. Known for his shrewd decision-making, this time too, was no exception for Belichick.
Belichick has worked with football teams like Baltimore Colts, Detroit Lions, New York Jets, and New England Patriots. During the first round of the 2023 NFL draft, the Patriots made a savvy move by allowing Pittsburgh Steelers to capitalize on the opportunity. But what was the move, and why did he make it?
Belichick?s clever maneuver to outwit the Jets
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Cutting to the chase, the whole story was that the Jets were scheduled to pick at No 15. However, Belichick somehow knew they would go for Georgia’s offensive tackle, Broderick Jones, so that he becomes a helping hand for QB Aaron Rodgers. Technically tackles play the main role of keeping the edge rushers away from the quarterbacks. Owing to this, Belichick made a judicious move, shifting the Steelers to the No 14 pick. Consequently, Pittsburgh Steelers acquired Jones, and the Jets had to end up with Iowa State defensive lineman Will McDonald IV.
Analysis: Bill Belichick’s latest jab at the Jets still has the NFL talking https://t.co/IHjZi2R08E
— The Washington Post (@washingtonpost) May 2, 2023
?They should have had to give up a [third-round pick] and not a four to move up there,? said an anonymous NFL general manager, who was observing the draft. He, via ‘Washington Post’, further added, ?Belichick did it just to f*ck the Jets. He sold low because he knew the Steelers were going to take the kid the Jets wanted to take.?
This sudden move by Belichick compelled everyone to ponder over his reason for the act.
Belichick?s probable reasons to dislike the Jets
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It is difficult to say why Belichick detests the Jets, as he never openly confirmed the animosity that he may have held towards the Jets. However, some of their friction-filled episodes from the past may highlight the factor. One possible reason could be Belichick?s sudden and mysterious resignation from the Jets. It was the time when he was about to give his introductory speech after becoming the head coach of the New York Jets in 2000.
After his workout, he reportedly left the building wearing a Jets? warm-up suit with a carry case. A little while later, he sent shocking news to the team on a loose, leaf-like paper. It reads, ?I resign as HC of the NYJ.? Another possible reason could be the natural rivalry between the two teams of the AFC East division.
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Whatever the reason is, Belichick?s primary goal, according to the reports, was to baffle the Jets and gain an advantage for his Patriots. As far as his relationship with the Jets is concerned, the rivalry is likely to last for many years to come.