The Pats' decision to rip open the cash drawer in pursuit of free-agent talent showed they're back in the football business.

Belichick served as the Jets' assistant head coach and defensive coordinator under Bill Parcells from 1997-99 ... and went on to join the New England Patriots. The Jets announced last week ...

Last week, it was reported North Carolina Football and HC Bill Belichick ... to replace Parcells as head coach of the Jets in 2000 but infamously resigned and was hired by the Patriots, who ...