UNC defensive coordinator Steve Belichick to resign after internal investigation
Steve Belichick will step down as North Carolina's defensive coordinator on Oct. 27 following an internal probe that found isolated actions contrary to the university's values.
University of North Carolina announced that defensive coordinator Steve Belichick will resign effective Oct. 27, when his medical leave ends. The decision follows the completion of an internal investigation into the football program’s culture, which the university said found "certain actions demonstrated a disregard for Carolina’s values and standards of conduct" but were not indicative of a systemic problem. UNC added that corrective measures are now underway under the oversight of Carolina Athletics and the Office of University Counsel.
The investigation, commissioned after reports that Belichick was questioned about alleged drug use on the job, concluded without an explicit reason for his resignation. The university stated it would act on any credible new information that emerges.
Belichick, who is in the final year of a two-year, $2.7 million contract and previously served as defensive coordinator at the University of Washington, has not responded to requests for comment.
The announcement came shortly after the resignation of General Manager Michael Lombardi, who left the program on Sept. 3 amid the same probe. Lombardi’s attorney described the investigation as a "witch hunt," though the university did not link his departure directly to the findings.
Separately, freshman wide receiver Keeyun Chapman was suspended indefinitely after being charged with a gun offense following a traffic stop. The university said the suspension reflects its commitment to accountability and athlete well-being.
UNC’s statement emphasized that the steps taken aim to strengthen the football program and uphold the university’s standards.