When it became clear that Bill Belichick wanted to return to coaching, many assumed that would be on an NFL sideline. After all, the future Hall of Famer has won a record eight Super Bowls, seven of which came with the New England Patriots over the last two decades.
Belichick mastered the job, but instead of trying out his success with another franchise, he pivoted to the college game and became the head coach at the University of North Carolina.
A fascinating turn certainly and his Tar Heels will be one of the biggest stories this season in the sport. However, speculation remains about his interest in the position long term.
If somehow the call back to the NFL grows too loud to ignore, there is one spot fans should keep an eye on, according to PFT's Mike Florio. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers could be that team to watch depending on how current head coach Todd Bowles performs this season.
"Much of it depends on what the Bucs do (or don’t do) in 2025, and what the Tar Heels do (or don’t do) in 2025. Still, with Belichick’s buyout down to $1 million as of last Sunday, let’s not assume no one at the NFL level will want Belichick.
"The Bucs have the talent; if ownership decides that an excellent game-day coach could get them back to the top of the mountain, it’s not as nutty as it may seem."
Bowles has progressed his win total each season with the Bucs, continuing their streak of NFC South titles which is now up to four. Those successes have admittedly come in part to a very watered down division of late, needing only eight, nine and then 10 wins in 2024 to retain the crown.
Tampa Bay has remained competitive even after Tom Brady's retirement much in part to Baker Mayfield's career revival since joining the team. General manager Jason Licht has responded by continually adding talent through the draft and free agency to keep the machine churning.
Given Bowles' slow progress a step too far back or a continuation of his first three seasons may cause the franchise to reevaluate their needs with the job, Belichick or not.
His buyout now significantly reduced, the door to a return has creaked open ever so slightly. As of now, there is no smoke to the fire, but if Belichick changes course within the next year, Tampa Bay would be a spot hard to turn down in his position.