Belichick clarifies 'last 25 years' remark: Pats not resting on past laurels
New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick isn't relying on the championship success experienced during his 23-year tenure when looking ahead to the 2023 season.
"We're not resting on our past laurels; that's not the message to the team or the fans," Belichick said, according to The Boston Globe's Jim McBride.
The six-time Super Bowl-winning coach appeared to clarify a previous statement he made on Monday when asked what he would say to Patriots fans for them to be optimistic about next season, replying, "The last 25 years."
Belichick is set to embark on his 24th season with New England. The franchise has won six Super Bowls and nine AFC championships during his tenure. He's just 19 wins shy of breaking the all-time record held by Don Shula (347).
The soon-to-be 71-year-old says he isn't paying much attention to his accomplishments and legacy as he turns his focus to preparing for next season.
Team owner Robert Kraft expressed confidence in his head coach earlier this week, saying, "I still believe in Bill."
Belichick brought in Bill O'Brien to be his offensive coordinator and Adrian Klemm as the offensive line coach after New England finished 8-9 in 2022.
Belichick said at the annual league meeting that he's optimistic the changes to the coaching staff and free-agent additions will help the Patriots be competitive next season.
"I think we've been pretty competitive every year that I've been here with the Patriots. That's our overall plan."