Bill Belichick's ricochet shot to former draft pick also an insult to Patriots past

Throughout his two decades in New England, Bill Belichick was not known for giving too much to the media during their forced interactions. In fact, he became one of the most infamous tight-lipped coaches in the NFL, which worked as a blessing and a curse during his tenure.

Now that he is a full-fledged member of the media, there's not much he can do when asked tough questions, especially about his former team, which doesn't appear to be as much of a problem for him as it had been when in New England.

Since joining various shows to discuss the 2024 NFL season, Belichick hasn't said too much about the Patriots, seeming to mostly avoid the subject if possible, whether on purpose or just lucked out that way. He did compliment Keion White for his early season performance on "Inside The NFL," which was well-received by the defense end who was seen wearing the customary sweatshirt that came with Belichick's pick of the week.

Since then, however, the Patriots haven't played anywhere near as well and have compiled three disappointing losses in a row, with the latest being a blowout to the 49ers on Sunday.

Although the loss was expected, given San Francisco's consistent positioning at the top of the NFC, the Patriots' performance, particularly on offense, prompted much conversation. From the debate over starting Drake Maye and the offensive line's liable performances to the lack of a passing game, there was a lot to dismantle about their latest showing.

Belichick discussed all of it during his weekly appearance on ESPN's "The Pat McAfee Show," but his unexpected dig at one of his former draft picks caught all the attention.

Bill Belichick's shot at Chad Ryland does not go unnoticed when discussing the Patriots latest loss

Unlike the 2023 season, the Patriots do not have to worry about their kicker's performance, nor are they forced to go for it on fourth down because they can't trust him to successfully hit a much-needed field goal.

That wasn't the case with Chad Ryland last year, a rookie kicker whom Belichick traded up in the fourth round for. He was never able to live up to the hype that was placed on him because of when he was selected. He became too much of a liability in games for him to be trusted to help score, which prompted the new regime to bring in veteran Joey Slye to bring the competition this past offseason.

It was clear early on that Slye won the kicking job, but it didn't become official until roster cuts. Since then, he continues to prove why he was the right choice, which as on full display against the 49ers on Sunday, as he broke a career and franchise record with a 63-yard field goal for the Patriots first points.

It was so impressive that Belichick highlighted his performance on Monday while simultaneously sending a ricochet shot to Ryland, whom he drafted.

"But Joey Slye, that was a great addition for them. They got a good kicker and that's a big upgrade from where we were last year."

While it was great to hear the praise for Slye, it might have gone over Belichick's head that Ryland was one of his final draft picks as the Patriots head coach and general manager. Thus, Belichick seemingly insulted himself in the process of complimenting the current kicker.

Maybe he realized drafting Ryland when he did was a mistake during the season, or now that he's had time to reflect, he understands it more. Regardless, it was an overlooked part of what he had to say, and it would be interesting to hear more of how he feels about Ryland and other draft busts he selected over the years.

If he continues his career in the media, perhaps we'll eventually hear his true thoughts on it all.

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