Bill Belichick Gives Heartfelt Tribute to Patriots Legend Ernie Adams

The New England Patriots have parted ways with a legend. Head coach Bill Belichick delivered a thoughtful tribute to research director Ernie Adams, praising his great skills and his accomplishments in the organization.

Adams was part of the Patriots for 21 years, but decided to call it career. He had his final practice with the Patriots on Wednesday and waived his last goodbye.

In the NFL draft last month, coach Belichick honored Adams in the most brilliant way. Adams selected the final draft pick for the Patriots, giving wide receiver Tre Nixon a chance to become a Patriot. He took part in Patriots’ OTAs and minicamp practices and soaked everything in one last time.

Bill Belichick pays tribute to Ernie Adams

The Patriots head coach talked to the media about the practice and used the chance to praise Adams. These two developed an excellent relationship. Belichick respects their friendship and everything Adams did for the Patriots. He had a huge impact on their success.

“Ernie’s had such a big impact on our success here with the Patriots in so many different ways,” Belichick said. “I leaned heavily on Ernie for 21 years here and going back to Cleveland and New York and our relationship, which started at Andover more than 50 years ago.

“Ernie’s been a great friend. He’s certainly been a great asset to this organization and to me personally. I think a lot of things he’s done have also been recognized by other coaches and other staffs in the league…his versatility, ability to do so many different things, his passion for football are really second-to-none.”

The Patriots made a few great changes to the personnel in the last two seasons. Adams is out and his absence will be felt. Belichick will miss the experienced legend on the field. Enter Matt Patricia. His hiring made headlines in the past few months, and some people aren’t happy. Well, some believe that he will take Belichick’s position as the Patriots head coach in the next period.