Belichick Seeks Outside Help to Revamp Public Image
In a bid to revamp his public image, New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick has been exploring the possibility of hiring outside public relations help, according to sources cited by NBCSports.com. The move comes as Belichick embarks on a book tour and looks to boost his profile amidst a changing media landscape.
Belichick has been in talks with Brandon Faber, a former Vice President of Communications for the Chicago Bears, for several months, NBCSports.com reports. While nothing has been formalized, the discussions suggest that Belichick is seeking expert advice on how to navigate the media and improve his public image. The potential assignment could involve working directly with the University of North Carolina, where Belichick is currently the head coach, or assisting him with non-UNC matters, including his book tour.
The move is seen as a wise decision by many, given Belichick’s recent struggles with the media. His book tour has been marred by controversy, including a recent CBS interview in which he reverted to his trademark truculent press-conference presence. The appearance was widely panned, and sparked a week of relentless scrutiny that put his personal and professional life firmly in the spotlight. As NBCSports.com notes, "It would be wise for Belichick to get someone to provide him with frank, candid advice on how to navigate the media."
Belichick’s recent media appearances have been marked by controversy, including a bizarre incident in which his girlfriend served as a de facto umpire at a softball game. The incident sparked widespread media attention, including coverage from TMZ and Page Six. The scrutiny even extended to Saturday Night Live, which featured a skewering of Belichick in its latest episode. According to NBCSports.com, "Maybe it will change. To make it change, Belichick needs a seasoned and experienced P.R. professional who can tell him when things are going well — and who can make him realize when the football emperor’s new clothes is a Navy jersey from the 1950s with a big hole in it."
The hiring of outside P.R. help could mark a significant shift in Belichick’s approach to media relations. For years, the Patriots’ head coach has been known for his tight-lipped approach to the media, rarely giving interviews or making public appearances. However, with his book tour and increased scrutiny on his personal life, Belichick may be recognizing the need to adapt to a changing media landscape. As NBCSports.com reports, Belichick "seems to know that his current publicity plan isn’t working."
As Belichick looks to revamp his public image, it’s clear that he faces an uphill battle. With his reputation as a football coach well-established, Belichick must now navigate the complexities of modern media and public relations. By seeking outside help, he may be taking the first step towards a more nuanced and effective approach to media relations. Only time will tell if the move pays off, but one thing is certain: Belichick’s public image is in need of a serious overhaul.
In related news, it remains to be seen how Belichick’s new approach to media relations will impact his relationships with the media and the public. One thing is certain, however: with the help of a seasoned P.R. professional, Belichick may be able to present a more palatable and relatable image to the public. According to NBCSports.com, the discussions between Belichick and Faber have been ongoing for several months, suggesting a serious consideration of outside help.
Sources:
NBCSports.com
