Two bottom-feeders reportedly interested in Bill Belichick for HC job

Let the bidding war begin.

The Athletic's Dianna Russini reported the Commanders and Raiders, among others, are interested in Patriots head coach Bill Belichick for their potential openings following the season.

Patriots owner Robert Kraft and Belichick will meet early next week to discuss his future with the organization he led to six Super Bowl wins, and there have been plenty of rumors this season of a potential split between the two.

New England (4-12) has its worst record since 1992. It's also the worst mark in Belichick's career, but the Patriots' strong defensive showing suggests he still has plenty to offer an NFL franchise, either in New England or elsewhere.

Belichick has a link to the Raiders with former Patriots quarterback Tom Brady pursuing a minority ownership stake. However, interim head coach Antonio Pierce has the support of the locker room in Vegas, which could stymie a potential Belichick signing.

The Commanders are a more intriguing fit. Head coach Ron Rivera is widely expected to be fired following the end of the season. Changes to the front office might be in store as well under owner Josh Harris, who's entering his first full offseason with the franchise.

Belichick was also New England's de facto general manager. A similar power structure could fit in Washington.

Russini's report suggests more teams will express interest should the Belichick era end in New England following Week 18. The Patriots are in need of a rebuild and are likely to have one of the top selections of the 2024 draft. They could add to their cache of picks by trading Belichick, who signed a contract extension during the 2023 offseason.   

The demand for Belichick will be high if New England moves in a different direction. Any NFL team with an opening this offseason should get their offers ready.