Most expect Bill Belichick to return to an NFL sideline in 2025. While it could be in Jacksonville or one of several other cities, go ahead and cross off Atlanta from that list.
Not only did the Falcons reject the legendary coach after interviewing him in January, Belichick also raised eyebrows on Monday’s ManningCast with comments related to Atlanta owner Arthur Blank.
Recalling New England’s comeback from a 28-3 deficit to beat the Falcons in Super Bowl LI, the coach curiously recalled looking across the NRG Stadium field and seeing Blank much earlier than most owners leave their suites.
“I also remember Blank down on the sideline in the fourth quarter — you know, celebrating when they were ahead,” Belichick said, via Awful Announcing.
After Peyton Manning asked the coach to confirm what he just said, Belichick offered this.
“Well, he’s a pretty good dresser now. Arthur always looks sharp. He was down there on the sideline and we were getting beat.”
Whether the coach used Blank’s presence as in-game bulletin-board material isn’t known. What’s known is that Belichick, Tom Brady and the Patriots made Super Bowl history, storming back to win in overtime, 34-28.
Ironically, Monday’s ManningCast also included Blank’s quarterback from that 28-3 Patriots comeback, Matt Ryan. After Belichick had left the broadcast, Ryan joined Peyton and Eli Manning for a fascinating real-time commentary on Kirk Cousins’ game-winning drive to beat the Eagles.
Belichick interviewed with Blank and the Falcons prior to the team hiring Raheem Morris on Jan. 25.
Widely regarded as one of the more respected owners from a business perspective, partially because Mercedes-Benz Stadium has transformed the fan experience, Blank will be inducted into the team’s Ring of Honor this week when the Falcons host the Chiefs on Sunday Night Football (8:20 p.m. ET, NBC).