Bill Belichick Takes Helm as North Carolina Tar Heels Football Coach
Chapel Hill, NC – In a surprising move that has sent ripples through the college football landscape, Bill Belichick has been appointed as the new head coach of the North Carolina Tar Heels. The announcement was made on Wednesday, marking a historic transition for the six-time Super Bowl champion, who has notably never coached at the collegiate level.
In a statement, Belichick expressed his excitement for this opportunity, saying, “I am excited for the opportunity at UNC-Chapel Hill.” He recalled his childhood experiences around college football with his father and stated, “I have always wanted to coach in college and now I look forward to building the football program in Chapel Hill.” The agreement is reportedly a five-year deal, pending approval from the university’s administration.
Previous head coach Mack Brown was paid a salary of $5 million per season and was let go after six seasons in his second tenure with the team. North Carolina’s Chancellor, Lee H. Roberts, praised Belichick as a perfect fit to lead the program, sharing, “Carolina is committed to excellence… I know after speaking with Coach Belichick that he shares that commitment.”
Belichick’s candidacy came as a surprise to many, particularly since he had not openly pursued a college coaching position before his recent discussions with UNC. After leaving the New England Patriots in 2023, he has spent the 2024 season in television but indicated a desire to return to coaching in 2025. His extensive coaching background, which includes a remarkable record of six Super Bowl victories and numerous NFL accolades, adds a significant level of credibility to the Tar Heels football program.
This hiring is seen as a landmark moment for North Carolina football, a program traditionally overshadowed by the school’s basketball success. As questions arise about how Belichick will adapt to the complexities of college football, including recruitment and NIL deals, many are eager to see how he will integrate his professional coaching methods into a collegiate setting.
Belichick’s son, Steve Belichick, is expected to play a role in the new coaching staff, bolstering family ties within the program. As the Tar Heels look ahead, they will aim to build on their previous successes, hoping to return to winning ways and make a name for themselves under their new head coach.
