Michael Lombardi had become a successful member of the media industry after leaving the Oakland Raiders, which he gave up to become general manager of the Cleveland Browns in 2013.

Lombardi last just one season with the Browns and then was hired by old confidant Bill Belichick with the New England Patriots. Lombardi's title is assistant to the coaching staff and the role is reportedly best described as Belichick's "right-hand man."

Lombardi attends nearly every practice and his opinion is sought by Belichick in multiple areas.

"I've asked Mike to do some things on an individual [basis] -- projects or things that I've asked him to do -- and he's done a great job of that for me," Belichick said. "Mike has been a big help to me personally."