Friends of legendary coach Bill Belichick are reportedly 'deeply concerned' he is damaging his reputation through his relationship with 24-year-old girlfriend Jordon Hudson.
The 73-year-old eight-time Super Bowl winner faces mounting criticism following a catastrophic CBS interview on Sunday.
During the interview, Belichick appeared visibly uncomfortable when questioned about his relationship with Hudson, who is 48 years his junior.
The controversial exchange has thrust their relationship back into the spotlight, with close associates worried about Hudson's influence on the coaching icon.
Friends of legendary coach Bill Belichick are reportedly 'deeply concerned' he is damaging his reputation through his relationship with 24-year-old girlfriend Jordon Hudson
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Hudson was described as "a constant presence" during the interview by CBS's Tony Dokoupil.
The former cheerleader reportedly shut down a question about how the couple met whilst sitting off-camera.
It later emerged that Hudson had stormed out during the interview, causing a 30-minute delay to proceedings.
The backlash to the awkward exchange was swift and intense, with businessman Dave Portnoy, a Patriots fan and Belichick admirer, calling it "the most awkward Belichick interview I have ever seen."
Following the interview, sources have now revealed that Belichick's friends have "gently" asked him to consider Hudson's influence on his reputation.
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Bill Belichick and Jordon Hudson first started dating back in 2023
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Their concerns have, however, reportedly fallen on deaf ears.
"He is not paying much attention to them," a source told the Daily Mail.
"He is letting the moment ride out. It hasn't hampered their relationship negatively."
The source added: "Bill is one to move on very quickly from adversity and doesn't allow it to creep in. When it comes to this situation, it is just a moment in time. He and Jordon are fine."
The fallout has begun to affect Belichick's coaching career at the University of North Carolina, where he started as head coach last December.
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Multiple reports suggest the university is growing uncomfortable with Hudson's involvement in his day-to-day management.
Emails revealed Belichick requested Hudson be included on every message the school sent him about running the team.
Footage also went viral showing the 24-year-old repeatedly rushing over to speak with him during a recent spring training camp.
A source claimed critics will only motivate Belichick: "Bill has had his host of detractors over the years that are chomping at the bit to see him struggle at UNC."
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Despite the public backlash, the couple appears unbothered by the controversy surrounding their relationship.
"Bill and Jordon are living their best lives right now and are laughing over the controversy," the source revealed.
"They didn't put much thought into it after it happened on the day. The way it is being made to look isn't testing their relationship. They are mostly unfazed by it all.
"They are in love and happy and they aren't going to let talk ruin a good thing."
Bill Belichick won six Super Bowls as a coach during his NFL career, as well as two as an assistant
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As scrutiny continued to intensify, the couple were spotted in New York on Monday night.
They were seen leaving the luxurious Ritz-Carlton in Manhattan.
Belichick was dressed in a suit whilst Hudson wore a glamorous black dress.
Both ignored questions about the interview backlash as they got into a waiting car.
