Former New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick is trying a lot of new things now that he’s out of the coaching fold and fully embracing his new role with the media.
One of those things is social media, something the eight-time Super Bowl champion has stayed away from.
But now, times have changed and so has Belichick, as he explained on the latest episode of the Pat McAfee Show.
“I can’t believe I’m doing this, but I joined Instaface,” the coach said, incorrectly stating the name of the social media app Instagram.
In his first post on Instagram, Belichick explained why he was so averse to social media for so long and why things have changed now.
Bill Belichick has officially joined Instagram, his first foray into social media in his career.
Within hours of launching the account, Belichick had already amassed thousands of followers.
“During my NFL career, I had built-in opportunities to express myself at any time,” the former New England player said.
‘Circumstances are different now. So here I am.
‘I am (surprisingly) delighted to announce my decision to utilize social media platforms with the intention of connecting directly with fans and audiences.
“This debut was inconceivable a few months ago, but exciting now!” the statement concludes.
Within just a few hours, Belichick had already amassed tens of thousands of followers (more than 65,000 at the time of publication).
It’s a peculiar move after a summer of peculiar moves made by the 72-year-old following his departure from New England in the offseason.
Belichick has resigned from his position atop Foxborough after 24 years in charge of the Patriots.
Following that announcement, the coach – who used to have a seemingly cold relationship with the media – revealed that he would be joining their ranks.
Belichick will be a member of the media after a period in which he was cold toward reporters.
Another new development this summer is Belichick’s relationship with 23-year-old Jordan Hudson.
Belichick will spend this season on the NFL highlights show “Inside the NFL” as part of the panel of experts.
He will also make routine appearances on ESPN programs such as the Pat McAfee Show and the “ManningCast” edition of Monday Night Football.
On Wednesday, Adam Schefter reported that Belichick had taken on another media role as a strategic advisor to the 33rd Team.
The media and technology startup is made up of former players, coaches and executives. The cast of characters, combined with a group of veteran writers, analysts and insiders, makes for a good source of NFL news and analysis from people who have worked in the league.
Former NFL coaches Matt Patricia and Adam Gase will also join the 33rd team alongside Belichick.
Belichick is also planning to host his own show: COACH on Underdog Fantasy.
In addition to new work, Belichick has been spending time with his new girlfriend, Jordon Hudson, 23.
The couple spent many days together on Nantucket over the summer attending various meetings and taking trips on Belichick’s boat.
