Belichick puts to rest any doubts about his Patriots future

Bill Belichick said Monday that he "absolutely" intends to return as the New England Patriots' head coach next season, according to Michael Giardi of NBCSports Boston.

Belichick's future has been questioned following an explosive ESPN story which highlighted increasing tensions between the head coach, Tom Brady, and owner Bob Kraft.

The three men denied any issues in their relationships in a joint statement Friday, and Kraft said Saturday he "absolutely" expects Belichick to return in 2018.

Asked if Kraft ordered him to trade former backup quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo - as was reported by ESPN - Belichick was characteristically reticent.

"I haven't read the article," said Belichick, according to Giardi. "I already commented at length on that situation and I don't have anything to add to it."