Bill Belichick’s last New England Patriots press conference started with a joke, but it ended with one of the more awkward moments of the franchise's recent history.
At noon on Thursday, the former Pats coach formally announced he was parting ways with New England, thanking the fans for their support over the last two decades and stoically telling reporters, “I’ll always be a Patriot.”
Toward the end of the press conference, owner Robert Kraft shook Belichick’s hand at the podium and brought him in for a hug.
Belichick's final words were, “Thanks, Robert.” Kraft then turned to address the reporters and said, “He’s got a cold, so I’m not going to kiss him,” causing Belichick to crack an awkward smile.
Robert Kraft hugs Bill Belichick: "He's got a cold so I'm not going to kiss him."
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) January 11, 2024
Belichick: "Thank you."
And that's the end....pic.twitter.com/nnG7znKq4j
Belichick’s legendary 24-season tenure in Foxborough included 296 total wins, 17 AFC East titles, and six Super Bowls. Setting aside the historic numbers, the 71-year-old's career is sprinkled with a litany of iconic moments from his uncharacteristic excitement over Tom Brady's fourth-down run to his cheeky challenge flag spike in front of an NFL official to, now, the awkward side-arm-hug-near-kiss moment with Robert Kraft.
What a way to end his Patriots’ career.
Related: Bill Belichick’s Unparalleled Legacy in New England
