The New England Patriots are continuing their search for a new head of football operations, and former Carolina Panthers executive Samir Suleiman is the latest candidate to be interviewed for the position. The news, first reported by ESPN's Adam Schefter, suggests that the Patriots are keen on adding Suleiman's experience to their team.

Suleiman, a former wide receiver at James Madison University, began his career in 1997 as an executive with the NFL Management Council. His responsibilities included analyzing player contracts and ensuring salary cap compliance. In 1998, he joined the Jacksonville Jaguars as a manager of contract information before eventually being promoted to director of football administration and later director of football operations for the St. Louis Rams.

After a three-year absence from the NFL, Suleiman returned to the league in 2013 with the Pittsburgh Steelers. He spent seven years with the organization as their football administration coordinator, where he played a key role in managing salary cap, budgeting, and assisting in roster construction and player evaluation.

During his time with the Panthers, Suleiman acted as their primary negotiator, handling salary cap management and budgeting for football operations. He also provided assistance to the ownership, general manager, and head coach in various aspects, including roster construction, player evaluation, procurement, strategic planning, and ensuring compliance with NFL rules.

Unfortunately for Suleiman, his tenure with the Panthers came to an end following the 2023 season due to a restructuring. Now, he is seeking a new opportunity with the New England Patriots, becoming the second known candidate to interview for the open position in the football operations department, previously held by long-term head coach Bill Belichick. The team has also met with Brandon Hunt, the director of scouting for the Philadelphia Eagles.

The Patriots are carefully considering their options to fill this crucial role within the organization, as their head of football operations will play an integral part in shaping the team's future. The interview with Suleiman indicates that the Patriots are exploring multiple avenues to find the right candidate who can lead the team to continued success.

As the search continues, only time will tell if Suleiman or another candidate will emerge as the frontrunner to take on the responsibilities previously held by the highly respected Bill Belichick.