Bill Belichick, the legendary coach with six Super Bowl titles from his tenure with the New England Patriots, has reportedly held discussions with the University of North Carolina (UNC) about becoming their next head football coach. Sources shared this development with ESPN on Thursday.
Belichick, 72, stepped away from the NFL after leaving the Patriots following the 2023 season. However, sources suggest he remains eager to return to coaching, whether at the college or professional level.
UNC’s Coaching Vacancy
The Tar Heels recently fired head coach Mack Brown, who led the team for six seasons during his second stint with the program. Brown, 73, a College Football Hall of Famer, was the oldest active FBS coach this season. Under Brown, UNC achieved a 44-33 record but ended the 2024 season at 6-6. He will not coach in UNC’s upcoming bowl game.
For now, Freddie Kitchens, a former Cleveland Browns head coach and current UNC run game coordinator, will serve as interim head coach while the university searches for a permanent replacement.
Potential Fit and Competition
Belichick’s name stands out as a blockbuster candidate for the Tar Heels. Sources indicate mutual interest between the two parties. However, Belichick isn’t the only contender.
Other candidates include:
- Jon Sumrall (Tulane Head Coach): Expected to formally interview after Tulane’s AAC Championship Game.
- Matt Campbell (Iowa State Head Coach)
- Glenn Schumann (Georgia Defensive Coordinator)
- Steve Wilks: Former NFL head coach with stints at the Arizona Cardinals and Carolina Panthers, recently a volunteer assistant at Charlotte.
UNC initially targeted Arthur Smith, offensive coordinator for the Pittsburgh Steelers and a UNC alumnus. However, Smith declined the opportunity, opting to remain in the NFL.
Belichick’s Legacy and College Ties
Belichick boasts an illustrious NFL career, including 24 seasons with the Patriots and two Super Bowl wins as defensive coordinator for the New York Giants. His 333 career victories rank second only to Don Shula’s 347.
While Belichick has never coached at the collegiate level, his father, Steve Belichick, was a long-time assistant at the U.S. Naval Academy. Growing up in a football-rich environment in Annapolis, Maryland, Belichick has deep roots in the sport.
Recent Activities
During his coaching hiatus, Belichick has remained visible, making guest appearances on shows like The ManningCast, The Pat McAfee Show, and Inside the NFL.
UNC’s coaching search continues, with Belichick emerging as the most high-profile candidate. InsideCarolina.com was the first to report his interview with UNC.
Additional information was contributed by ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Source: Espn.com
