Immediately after it was reported that Josh McDaniels decided to turn down the Indianapolis Colts' head coaching job last minute to remain with the New England Patriots, speculation about Bill Belichick possibly retiring spread like wildfire across the internet.
While it does appear the plan is for McDaniels to be the successor to Belichick down the road, the highly coveted offensive coordinator actually would've left if Belichick was retiring now. But, that's not the case: Bill Belichick will be the head coach of the New England Patriots in 2018.
From ESPN's Mike Reiss:
Belichick is locked in to coach Patriots in 2018.
Reiss notes that clarity over Belichick staying this upcoming season was a key factor for McDaniels as he ultimately decided to stay in New England. Reiss and Adam Schefter said that if Belichick had walked away, McDaniels would likely be gone too:
McDaniels' decision to stay could spark speculation that perhaps Belichick's tenure is about to end, but those close to McDaniels say that isn't the case — and if it was, he would have been more inclined to leave, a source told ESPN's Mike Reiss.
By burning bridges with Indianapolis, it's all but assured that McDaniels will take over head coaching duties for the Patriots when Belichick retires. As bright of an offensive mind as he is, it's unlikely another franchise will entertain hiring him as their head coach any time soon after what he just pulled on the Colts.
Leaving Colts at altar makes McDaniels radioactive as HC candidate everywhere but NE going forward. Have to believe he assurances
— Tom E. Curran (@tomecurran) February 7, 2018
NBC Sports Boston's Tom Curran also notes that prior to Tuesday night's breaking news, there was little indication that Kraft and the Patriots wanted McDaniels to be Belichick's successor. Now, it seems likely.
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