UNC investigation could jeopardize football coach Bill Belichick's contract
A university-wide investigation into the North Carolina football program has raised questions about whether head coach Bill Belichick failed to report alleged misconduct, potentially triggering a for-cause termination under his contract.
North Carolina athletic director Michael Lombardi resigned on Thursday after a WRAL investigation highlighted serious concerns within the Tar Heels football program. The report, based on interviews conducted by an external law firm, noted that individuals were asked whether they had reported questionable behavior to head coach Bill Belichick.
The contract between Belichick and the university includes an Article 11(c) provision that allows termination for cause if the coach knows of, directs, or fails to report conduct that results in a material disciplinary finding by the university, conference or other governing body.
The investigation is reportedly examining allegations that defensive coordinator Steve Belichick may have used or provided drugs to a player, that a member of the recruiting staff may have had a sexual relationship with a player, and that other staff members may have engaged in similar conduct.
"The people said they were asked whether they had reported any potentially questionable behavior to Bill Belichick," the WRAL report quoted sources as saying.
If evidence shows that Bill Belichick was aware of any of these matters and did not report them as required, the university could invoke the for-cause clause, potentially terminating his employment and ending the remainder of his $50 million, five-year buyout agreement.