Bill Belichick is reportedly parting ways with the New England Patriots. The 71-year-old longtime head coach is expected to announce his departure from the NFL team on Thursday, according to ESPN. Throughout the week, Belichick and Patriots’ owner Robert Kraft discussed the move and its best approach in talks with no animosity between them, sources revealed. NFL insiders also reported the news, stating that the decision for Belichick’s departure was a mutual agreement with the Patriots.

Belichick, with a historic six Super Bowl titles, has solidified his position among the best NFL coaches. Joining the Patriots in 2000 after coaching stints with the New York Giants, New York Jets, and the Cleveland Browns, Belichick marked his 49th consecutive season as a coach in 2022, breaking the NFL record previously held by Dick LeBeau.

While Belichick has not addressed the news yet, a press conference with Kraft, 82, is expected on Thursday. Belichick, expressing interest in coaching, plans to explore other head-coach vacancies in the league. Notable achievements include his camaraderie with former Patriots quarterback Tom Brady, leading to multiple Super Bowl victories.

After Brady’s departure in 2020, the Patriots experienced a decline, concluding this season with a 4-13 record. In December, reports suggested the team’s intention to fire Belichick as head coach after the season, citing a disappointing performance. Brady defended Belichick, calling him “the best coach in the history of the game” during an appearance on the Stephen A. Smith Show. Belichick’s future with the Patriots has been a topic of speculation, and the thought of him not being in New England is challenging for Brady to contemplate.