Before all you Bill Belichick supporters get all excited about the possibility of him returning to the Patriots next season, you might want to curb your enthusiasm.

In his season ending press conference on Monday morning, Belichick proclaimed that he would do what’s best for the team in regards to giving up personnel control. This surprising comment was not just meant for the Kraft family and the Patriots organization, it was meant for the rest of the league as well. 

Everything Belichick does or says is calculated. He knew the entire league would be listening to see what he would say on Monday. What he said was, he does not need personnel control, whether it is here or somewhere else. He just wants to coach. 

Belichick preferably still wants to coach in New England. He also knows that it could be somewhere else if Robert Kraft decides to terminate him. Firing him is the only way Belichick goes. He made it clear yesterday. He is not resigning. 

By referencing his contract status and showing a willingness to just coach, Belichick drew the line in the sand. He put the onus on Kraft to make a decision. Either fire me or let me do my job and let me clean up the mess. 

Does Kraft have the intestinal fortitude to fire Belichick? We will find out in the coming days. For now, Belichick’s status is in limbo.

One thing is certain. If Kraft does fire Belichick, the legendary coach will have plenty of suitors. Now that he has told the rest of the league that he doesn’t necessarily need personnel control, he will coach next season. Whether it is here or somewhere else. 

Belichick always has a plan. On and off the field. Let’s see how this all plays out in the coming days.