UNC places football general manager Michael Lombardi on paid administrative leave amid investigation

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill announced on Thursday that Michael Lombardi, the football program’s general manager, has been placed on paid administrative leave pending an internal investigation. The university said the action follows "concerns behind allegations" and that the matter involves confidential personnel issues, so it will not comment on the specifics.

Lombardi, who was hired in 2023 with a $1.5 million salary, is the highest-paid general manager in college football. The university’s Office of University Counsel is conducting the review, and athletic-department officials said they hope for an "expedited process" while ensuring a thorough investigation.

According to reports, the leave resulted from a human-resources complaint filed by a former staff member. UNC athletic director Steve Newmark said the university, rather than head coach Bill Belichick or the athletic department, initiated the action.

Lombardi’s tenure has coincided with a challenging first season for the Tar Heels, who posted a 4-8 record. The program also faced criticism over its handling of the transfer portal and NIL negotiations, with some agents describing the approach as misaligned with market expectations.

Belichick, who earned $10 million in his first year, previously defended Lombardi, calling his contributions "monumental." However, the current investigation removes the general manager from day-to-day duties while the university determines the appropriate next steps.