Chad Johnson Claims That His Personality Was “Suppressed” by Bill Belichick’s “Patriot Way”

Tom Brady was not exempt from scrutiny during the New England Patriots era. This is due to the fact that Bill Belichick’s “Patriot Way” frequently suppressed individual expression in favor of conformity and discipline. Known for his flamboyant attitude, Chad Johnson experienced a culture shock as a result.

NEW YORK, NY – SEPTEMBER 04: NFL Star Chad Johnson discusses “Warriors of Liberty City” with the Build Series at Build Studio on September 4, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Roy Rochlin/Getty Images)

Ocho joined the Patriots in 2011 after playing with the Cincinnati Bengals for just one season. His career’s lowest output came during his one year with Foxborough. Only 15 receptions for 276 yards and one touchdown were made by the wide receiver under Belichick.

The Miami Dolphins signed him after the Patriots cut him after his career-low season.

Chad Johnson talks about Bill Belichick’s way

In his chat with Chris Long, Johnson reminisced on his very limited time with the Patriots. Before going into further detail on what he saw to be a repressive environment, Ocho stated:

“I was just never really myself,”  “I went in very shy in a sense, not wanting to be myself, really suppressing who I was as a player as far as my personality goes,” “He was cool as hell. I thought I was one of the few who were able to make him smile,” 

“I still walked on eggshells as a player there because, you know, the Patriot Way, and it seemed like everybody was expendable based on what happened to other great players that happened to play for him,” 

“I was already behind the eight ball because I got there late when I was traded and didn’t have a full camp and all the stuff I needed to get acclimated with the playbook,” “Obviously, getting to the Super Bowl was awesome. I understood what it took and why they were consistently winning year in and year out,” 

Interestingly, though, Johnson saw a bright side to his meetings with Belichick despite the strict environment. Johnson talked about his apparent influence over the head coach. Ocho, however, is still grateful that the team made it to the Super Bowl despite having subpar numbers.

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