In what has been a dismal season for the New England Patriots, a recent report has shed light on the somber atmosphere surrounding the team, potentially marking the end of Bill Belichick's tenure as head coach.

According to ESPN's Dan Graziano, the aura surrounding the Patriots was described as "glum" and "depressing" leading up to their victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers on "Thursday Night Football" last week. It was a much-needed win after a five-game losing streak.

The victory came courtesy of backup quarterback Bailey Zappe, who stepped in for struggling starting quarterback Mac Jones. Zappe impressed with three touchdown passes in the Patriots' 21-18 triumph.

Jones has had a turbulent season, being benched multiple times due to poor performances. The organization had hopes that Zappe, previously the backup to Jones, would show enough potential in practice to challenge for the starting role, as he did during the middle part of the season, according to the report.

The breaking point for Jones came in Week 12, when he was benched at halftime during a disappointing 10-7 loss to the Giants. At that moment, an ESPN source stated, "I think at this point, there's a sense that it just couldn't be worse."

With Zappe taking the reins, especially in the recent game against the Steelers, insiders noted that the offense played with renewed energy under his leadership.

However, the Patriots' focus now shifts to their upcoming clash against the Kansas City Chiefs, while also grappling with rumors surrounding the potential departure of their long-time head coach, Bill Belichick. Tom Curran of NBC Sports Boston recently reported that Belichick's fate was sealed in November during a loss to the Colts.

When questioned about his future on Wednesday, Belichick, who has been at the helm of the Patriots since 2000 and has helped secure six Super Bowl victories for the organization, simply stated, "I'm getting ready for Kansas City."

The Patriots, currently 3-10, will host the Chiefs, who stand at 8-5, in a crucial matchup on Sunday at 1 p.m. The outcome of the game and the remainder of the season may have a significant impact on the future of the franchise, both for the coaching staff and the team as a whole.