I think the Patriot Way evolved over time.
Brady would've likely never been what he's become if he'd landed anywhere but NE coming out of Michigan.
Belichick would've certainly never hit his heights as a HC without Brady.
Brady was molded (and to his credit was entirely susceptible to this molding) as a 6th round pick initially by Belichick and his approach. Belichick's ways guided the early years while Brady was essentially the game managing extension of the 'system'. Over time though Brady learned and adapted and grew into a capable leader. The effect then of having a mega-successful/mega-star QB leading and setting the example for your 'method' was priceless. Further over time it became apparent that Brady was so dug in, so committed, and so capable that he didn't necessarily need a mentor/teacher. This is when he 'became the system' aka 'The Patriot Way'. And so he was able to take it elsewhere where others have failed.
Brady would've likely never been what he's become if he'd landed anywhere but NE coming out of Michigan.
Belichick would've certainly never hit his heights as a HC without Brady.
Brady was molded (and to his credit was entirely susceptible to this molding) as a 6th round pick initially by Belichick and his approach. Belichick's ways guided the early years while Brady was essentially the game managing extension of the 'system'. Over time though Brady learned and adapted and grew into a capable leader. The effect then of having a mega-successful/mega-star QB leading and setting the example for your 'method' was priceless. Further over time it became apparent that Brady was so dug in, so committed, and so capable that he didn't necessarily need a mentor/teacher. This is when he 'became the system' aka 'The Patriot Way'. And so he was able to take it elsewhere where others have failed.