2. Carroll’s stop in New England set up the Belichick era
Before there was Bill Belichick donned in a Patriots hoodie, it was the young, energetic Pete Carroll. Carroll was tabbed as the Patriots head coach from 1997-99 following Bill Parcells’ resignation, leading the team to a 27-21 mark .
Carroll’s Patriots won the AFC East in 1997 , but he was fired by Kraft after two subsequent down seasons. Kraft admitted it was one of the hardest decisions he had to make. And in Carroll’s stead, Kraft named Belichick the next head coach.
Sorry to remind you of that, Jets fans.
