The New England Patriots: A Coaching Carousel or a Well-Oiled Machine?
Ah, the New England Patriots. A team synonymous with dynasty, excellence, and... well, a revolving door at the head coach position (except for that Belichick fellow, we'll get to him). But seriously, how many coaches have donned the headset for America's favorite (or most hated, depending on who you ask) team? Buckle up, because we're about to take a wild ride through Patriots history, coach by coach.
From Humble Beginnings to Hammocks...Maybe (We Don't Actually Know About Bill Belichick's Coaching Attire Preferences)
Our journey starts in 1960 with Lou Saban, the first skipper of the Patriots ship. Unfortunately, his tenure was shorter than a Gronk spike celebration (remember those?). Let's just say the team wasn't exactly setting the world on fire. We then enter a period of coaching musical chairs, with names like Clive Rush and Chuck Fairbanks taking the reins. Fairbanks even got a taste of the "co-head coach" experiment, proving that sharing is not always caring (at least not in the NFL).
Tip: Pause, then continue with fresh focus.
Chuck Fairbanks Fun Fact: Did you know he was once caught on the sidelines reading a book? Maybe that's why the team struggled...or maybe he was just ahead of his time with in-game analytics?
The Belichick Era: When the Coaching Carousel Stopped (Mostly)
Tip: Skim only after you’ve read fully once.
Then, in the year 2000, a hooded figure emerged from the shadows. Bill Belichick, a defensive mastermind with a permanent scowl and a knack for winning, took the helm. Unlike his predecessors, Belichick wasn't going anywhere. He became the Patriots' anchor, their rock, their...well, you get the idea. Under Belichick's reign, the Patriots transformed into a dynasty, winning six Super Bowls and striking fear into the hearts of opposing quarterbacks (and their therapists).
Tip: Break it down — section by section.
How Many Head Coaches Have The New England Patriots Had |
So, How Many Coaches Have There Been?
Drumroll please... The New England Patriots have waltzed with a total of 15 head coaches. That's more coaches than Tom Brady has Super Bowl rings (although let's be honest, that number might change again someday).
QuickTip: Skip distractions — focus on the words.
Wait, There's More! (Because Apparently 15 Coaches Weren't Enough)
Here are some bonus fun facts:
- Jerod Mayo, a former Patriots linebacker, became the 15th head coach in 2024. Talk about going from tackling offenses to calling plays!
- Bill Belichick holds the record for most games coached (and most wins) for the Patriots. Talk about a coaching legend!
How To Patriot Coaching: A Totally Real and Official Guide (Disclaimer: This is definitely not real or official)
How to become a New England Patriots head coach?
- Be a defensive mastermind (or at least look like one). Belichick's scowl is basically a coaching requirement at this point.
- Know how to draft and develop Tom Brady-level talent (good luck). Because apparently, that's the secret sauce.
- Stock up on hoodies. Lots of hoodies. Comfort is key, especially when you're stressed about winning Super Bowls.
- Master the art of the sideline glare. It can strike fear into the hearts of opponents (and maybe even your own players).
- Be prepared to live in Bill Belichick's shadow (unless you are Bill Belichick). It's a tough gig, but someone's gotta do it.
💡 This page may contain affiliate links — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.