The move comes 12 days after the Patriots said they were searching for a new leader of their offense following a disappointing season that saw second-year quarterback Mac Jones struggle under an offense largely directed by play caller Matt Patricia and quarterbacks coach Joe Judge.
(Before you ask why one notable free agent QB's name isn't on the list, it's because there's no way he's coming back unless Kraft gives him the keys to the organization.)
Whatever way you slice it, the Pats' roster is middle of the road in terms of NFL talent. The head coach can still work his magic and put together game plans to help stymy the opposition, but is it time someone new takes over upstairs to help retool the roster?
Despite being "in it" right until the final four minutes or so of the season, the Patriots never truly felt "in it" this year relative to actual good teams in the league.
The loss, coupled with Miami beating the New York Jets, eliminated the Patriots (8-9) from the playoffs for the second time in three years, and just the fourth time in 23 seasons during Bill Belichick's coaching tenure.
Cincinnati dominated the first half, compiling more first downs (22) in the opening 30 minutes than the Patriots had plays (17). New England managed just three first downs, 70 total yards and amassed 44 penalty yards.
The Boston Red Sox and New England Patriots are now the two problem children of the Boston sports scene, after earning the city the moniker of "Titletown," thanks to their heavy lifting over the past two decades.