Bill Belichick

‘Greatest to ever do it': Current, former Patriots react to Bill Belichick's departure

Tom Brady and Julian Edelman are among the many to pay tribute to "the best coach in the history of the NFL"

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Following the news that the New England Patriots are parting ways with head coach Bill Belichick, numerous current and former players took to social media to share their thoughts.

Tom Brady, who won his first six Super Bowls with Belichick, shared a tribute to the man he called "the best coach in the history of the NFL," and someone who helped make Brady the player he was.

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Former tight end Rob Gronkowski also expressed gratitude to his former coach.

Longtime safety Devin McCourty was also among those wishing Belichick well.

Former Patriots quarterback Matt Cassel sent Belichick a video message on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, along with the caption, "You’re the best, coach Belichick! Congrats on an amazing run and thanks for all you did for me."

Ex-Patriots running back Rex Burkhead said simply, "Greatest to ever do it. Thank you Coach," on X.

Hall of Famer Richard Seymour, who was famously traded by Belichick, called his former coach "the greatest football mind to ever live."

"The Greatest! Thank you," current Patriots defensive lineman Davon Godchaux said on X, followed by five goat emojis.

Ex-Patriots tight end Ben Watson remarked on how Belichick, Seattle Seahawks coach Pete Carroll and Alabama's Nick Saban will all be leaving their current jobs at the same time.

Julian Edelman posted a fantastic video of Belichick that highlighted several of the best moments between them.

Patriots defensive lineman Christian Barmore posted a tribute to his Instagram story. Barmore has spent the last three seasons in New England.

Ex-Patriots safety Patrick Chung, who won three Super Bowl titles with Belichick in New England, praised the coach for helping him grow as a player and a person.

Patriots offensive lineman Calvin Anderson expressed gratitude for what Belichick has done for him on and off the field.

Patriots defensive tackle Daniel Ekuale expressed his emotion with a few emojis.

Former Patriots wide receivers coach Ross Douglas expressed his gratitude for Belichick.

So far, there has been no word from Tom Brady and Rob Gronkowski. We'll update this story when that changes.

Some local and national media members have also weighed in:

Patriots radio announcer Bob Socci shared some of his memories of watching Belichick coach.

"Nothing but gratitude for Belichick. What a run," added The Boston Globe's Chad Finn.

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