UNC spends over $914,000 on internal football program investigation

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill reported that an internal investigation into its football program cost more than $914,000. The probe, launched on July 30 after general manager Michael Lombardi was placed on paid administrative leave, concluded on September 17 with the resignation of defensive coordinator Steve Belichick, the son of head coach Bill Belichick.

University officials said the investigation found actions that "demonstrated a disregard for Carolina’s values and standards of conduct" but characterized the issues as isolated rather than systemic. Three law firms—K&L Gates, Williams Mullen and Barnes & Thornburg—provided legal and compliance services. Barnes & Thornburg billed the university over $821,000 for more than 1,000 hours of work, including nearly 200 hours by lead investigator Nate Huff and about 300 hours by partner McNair Nichols.

"Our job was to do what we always do, which is to do an impartial and independent investigation," Huff told reporters after the investigation closed. "We looked program-wide, not at any specific individual."

The investigation examined allegations of inappropriate sexual relationships, possible drug use, potential NCAA violations and the overall workplace environment within the football program. More than 60 interviews were conducted, including one with Bill Belichick.

UNC Chancellor Lee Roberts affirmed continued support for Coach Belichick, noting that the support carries expectations for conduct and behavior.