There are multiple odd absences within the New England Patriots coaching staff ahead of the 2023 Shrine Bowl game.
The Patriots were one of the two teams chosen, along with the Atlanta Falcons, to coach the opposing East and West teams. Matt Patricia, Joe Judge, Nick Caley and Steve Belichick were the four missing coaches that really stood out.
As NESN’s Zack Cox pointed out, Belichick and his wife are expecting their fourth child. So that would probably explain why he won’t be making the trip. Meanwhile, Caley’s contract is up as the Patriots tight ends coach.
It is interesting, however, that Bill O’Brien, who was just named the Patriots new offensive coordinator on Tuesday, will be making the trip, while both Patricia and Judge are left back at home.
Patricia struggled with the offensive play-calling duties in the 2022 season, and Judge didn’t fare any better as an offensive assistant/quarterbacks coach. The offense was an absolute mess, and in many ways, it was greatly responsible for the Patriots missing the playoffs.
There’s still a possibility of both Patricia and Judge remaining with the organization in reassigned roles, but the Patriots could also opt to move on entirely as well.
The full Shrine Bowl coaching staff is as follows:
Meet your 2023 West team position coaches from the New England @Patriots.#ShrineBowl #ForeverNE pic.twitter.com/gLvRdbErLd
— East-West Shrine Bowl (@ShrineBowl) January 25, 2023
The 2023 Shrine Bowl is slated to take place on February 2 at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. It’s a college all-star game that will feature some of the best prospects in the country.
