When players describe their experiences playing under Bill Belichick's regime, "fun" typically isn't the first word that comes out of their mouths.
The New England Patriots head coach's no-nonsense approach isn't for everyone. Just ask ex-Pats defensive end Cassius Marsh, who infamously voiced his displeasure playing for Belichick. Or Philadelphia Eagles offensive tackle Lane Johnson, who's known around these parts for calling New England a "fear-based organization."
Former Pats cornerback Asante Samuel is the latest to speak up about Belichick's strict coaching style. In an interview with TMZ Sports, Samuel said he believes Tom Brady finally had enough of it after 20 seasons, and that's what drove him out of town.
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“He probably just got fed up with it at the end of the day. He probably just got tired of it. He probably got tired of some inner-circle things that he wanted," Samuel said.
Although playing for Belichick wasn't always enjoyable for Samuel, who won two Super Bowls with the Patriots, he understands it helped him improve.
"[Playing for Belichick] worked out for me, man. It made me a better man, but it’s not something I enjoyed. … The strict rules. For me, we clashed a lot of heads. I just think I was treated a little differently, but maybe it’s because he was trying to get the best out of me. It worked out for me, so I can’t really say it was that bad.”
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This isn't Samuel's first time weighing in with a Brady/Belichick take. Just over a week ago, he said Belichick needed Brady to be successful, not vice versa.
Brady will continue his storied career playing under Bruce Arians on Tampa Bay Buccaneers. As for Belichick, it looks like he's on to Jarrett Stidham as his next QB.