The 2000 season was the New England Patriots' 31st in the National Football League (NFL) and their 41st overall.

[3] Despite rumors that he had been offered the Patriots' vacant head coaching position, Belichick cited the Jets' uncertain ownership situation following the death of owner Leon Hess earlier that year as the reason for his resignation.

Coincidentally, the Buccaneers beat the Patriots, 21–16, at Foxboro Stadium in their season opener.

On January 27, 2000, the Patriots hired Bill Belichick as their next head coach of team.

The Patriots received four roster exemptions for the NFL Europe allocations of Garrett Johnson, Marc Megna, Sean Morey, and Noel Scarlett.

Additionally, the Patriots allocated tackle Ed Ellis to NFL Europe and received a roster exemption for him, but he was released before the start of training camp.