After transitioning from the NFL to college football, Bill Belichick, the eight-time Super Bowl champion coach, continues to share insights on improving the NFL.

During his recent guest appearance on The Pat McAfee Show, Belichick suggested that the NFL could benefit from implementing a draft lottery system, similar to that of the NBA, as a measure to deter teams from tanking.

“I’ve never been involved in tanking, but I acknowledge that different leagues have different dynamics. The NBA addressed that issue by introducing a lottery system. So, even if you’re the worst team, you aren’t guaranteed the first pick,” Belichick stated at the 1:28:00 mark. “In the NFL, currently, if you finish last, you automatically receive the first pick.”

The proposed lottery system could effectively curb tanking within the NFL. As noted by Awful Announcing’s Ben Axelrod, Belichick highlighted the advantages of modifying the process to prevent teams from easily attaining the No. 1 pick, particularly in years when top draft classes feature standout quarterback prospects.

“I genuinely believe that adopting a system akin to the NBA’s lottery could enhance the competitiveness of the sport,” Belichick remarked. “It would change the conversation—though we might still discuss the same topics, there would be additional factors beyond just win-loss records, including an actual lottery system. However, that’s not my decision to make; it’s merely a suggestion.”

This discussion arose following the New York Giants’ dramatic 45-33 win over the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday, which could significantly affect the order of the 2025 NFL Draft. Belichick’s former team, the New England Patriots, currently leads the race to secure the No. 1 pick, according to NBC Sports’ Justin Leger.