Former New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick has undergone a lot of changes recently—both in his professional and personal life. Preparing for his inaugural season as the North Carolina football coach, he took the time to speak with Tony Dokoupil on “CBS News Sunday Morning” about his father’s influence on his career, Tom Brady’s drafting, and other significant topics.
Although usually not a fan of media engagements, Belichick appeared relaxed enough to don a tattered Navy sweatshirt, with his 24-year-old girlfriend, Jordon Hudson, close by. While his career is not over yet, he recently published a book, The Art of Winning: Lessons from My Life in Football.
Key Moments from the Interview
His Girlfriend Joined the Interview Hudson has been in a relationship with Belichick for over two years. While typically not active on social media, she has shared multiple photos with him, including celebratory posts for his 73rd birthday and playful ones where he dressed as a fisherman.
Belichick referred to her as his “creative muse” in his book, and Hudson describes her role in his professional life in her email signature as “Chief Operating Officer of Belichick Productions.” The couple maintains a degree of privacy regarding their relationship.
Dokoupil noted that Hudson was “a constant presence” during the interview, interjecting when Belichick discussed their first meeting. “We are not talking about this,” she said.
Despite the relationship facing scrutiny due to the age difference, Belichick remains unfazed by public opinion. “I’ve never concerned myself much with what others think; I focus on what I believe is best for me,” he explained.
No Mention of Robert Kraft in His Book During his long partnership with Patriots owner Robert Kraft, they celebrated six Super Bowl victories together. However, Kraft did not receive any acknowledgment in Belichick’s book. “This book reflects personal lessons and experiences related to football, and it primarily focuses on what I’ve directly encountered,” he stated.
Belichick’s Father Discouraged Him from Coaching Belichick’s father, Steve, who worked as an assistant at Navy for over three decades, dissuaded him from pursuing coaching. He often advised Belichick to consider a more stable profession.
Belichick appreciated his father’s honesty and noticed how coaching also seemed to offer a rewarding experience despite the warnings.
Choosing Tom Brady Belichick and Tom Brady rank among the most successful coach-quarterback pairs in NFL history, with their partnership beginning when Belichick drafted Brady in 2000. Belichick saw potential in Brady when many others overlooked him, noting that he was an accurate passer and a good decision-maker.
Belichick Reflects on Media Relationships Known for his tough demeanor during interviews, Belichick admitted he could have been more accommodating to the media during his coaching career. “I realize they have challenging jobs, and I understand now that I could have been easier to approach at times… but sometimes you have to move on and focus on what lies ahead.”
