Karma and Kraft

Just a thought as I ponder the NFL coaching carousel and the hiring of younger coaches, leaving renowned coach Bill Belichick without a coaching home. Yup.

Now, there have been observations about ageism. Pete Carroll hasn’t been hired either. Then there are reminders of Belichick’s prior cheating. And there’s the reality that Belichick hasn’t been good with quarterbacks other than Brady. He likes power too it seems – he wants every job.

But, I think a key point has been missed – and it is relevant for anyone with a long workplace history.

Bottom line: Belichick worked for Kraft, the team owner. And fluff and departing niceties aside, I think Kraft messaged to other owners that Big Bill wasn’t easy to work with and was a poor talent evaluator and employed his sons as coaches and wanted everything his way. Big Bill has not been a good interview for media; he is/was not known to smile. He seemed unable to work easily with others. He looked slovenly.

So, Kraft tolerated Belichick and all his downsides in exchange for 6 rings. But, I’m guessing Kraft had the last word and influence with other owners. Whether these owners reached out to Kraft or visa versa, the owner sank the coach as I see it.

My summation: Karma kicked in for Kraft and Belichick’s ways came back to haunt him. Guess some owners want more than winning. They want winning and a good attitude and charisma and capacity to deal well with others. Tough combination but certainly one Big Bill lacked. Karma rocks.

P.S. Perhaps I’m way off here on Belichick. I am not way off on one’s past being part of one’s present and future.