Former Patriots star names team 'coming in hot' for Bill Belichick

Belichick being hired by the Falcons has gained considerable traction since he and New England parted ways, and it's possible that it's a result of the stage he's at in his free agency process. 

While it hasn't been reported that Belichick has conducted interviews with any potential suitors, he has had members of his camp "back-channeling in recent weeks," according to CBS Sports' Jonathan Jones. 

Although some feel that a team like the Dallas Cowboys or Philadelphia Eagles could make a run at Belichick if they disappoint in the postseason, Atlanta seems like a solid fit for the 71-year-old. 

Despite finishing 7-10 for the third consecutive season, the Falcons have a roster capable of not only competing in but winning the NFC South. Atlanta invested heavily in its defense, which allowed the 11th-fewest yards per game in 2023 (321), and the unit could improve further under the defensive-minded Belichick. 

Additionally, the Falcons boast one of the top offensive lines in the NFL, which ranked second in pass-blocking efficiency this season (87.4), and have an array of promising young weapons. 

Of course, Atlanta's quarterback situation casts doubt on whether Belichick and the team can succeed together. The Falcons still have Taylor Heinicke and Desmond Ridder under contract for next season, though it's hard to justify either being a starting option after they combined for 3,726 passing yards, 17 touchdowns and 16 interceptions in 2023. 

Atlanta holds the eighth overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, so perhaps it will land its franchise-signal caller then.

Such a move would be a huge boost for the Falcons' 2024 outlook, especially if they can partner the quarterback with Belichick, even if the six-time Super Bowl-winning head coach hasn't had much success without Tom Brady.