On Sunday he said it was “way too early” to decide his future, having reportedly signed a multi-year deal at the start of the 2023 season.

Belichick’s Patriots have finished with losing records in three of the past four seasons. The team recorded back-to-back losing campaigns for the first time since 1993 this term.

During their golden period, led by Brady and Belichick, they played in nine Super Bowls – more than any other NFL franchise.

They also won 17 division titles, made 13 AFC championship game appearances and had the only undefeated 16-game regular season in 2007.

Belichick has eight Super Bowl titles in total after winning two titles as defensive coordinator of the New York Giants. He was also runner-up during a short spell as Patriots assistant in 1996.

He is the head coach with the most play-off appearances (19), play-off games (44) and play-off wins (31) and, with 333 victories overall – including play-offs – is second on the all-time list behind legendary Miami Dolphins coach Don Shula on 347.

Belichick will turn 72 in April and has been coaching in the NFL since 1975 but, with Shula’s record in sight, it has been reported in US media, external he wants to stay in the league.

The Atlanta Falcons, Los Angeles Chargers and Washington Commanders have all been linked with the three-time NFL coach of the year.