UNC defensive coordinator Steve Belichick to resign after medical leave ends
Steve Belichick will step down as North Carolina's defensive coordinator when his medical leave expires on Oct. 27, and his wife issued a statement thanking the university and emphasizing health priorities.
North Carolina announced Thursday that defensive coordinator Steve Belichick will resign from his post when his medical leave concludes on Oct. 27. The university did not disclose the reason for the leave, which began in August 2026.
Jen Belichick released a statement to ESPN expressing gratitude for the family's time in Chapel Hill and thanking those who supported them. She said the family’s priority is to maintain health and mental well-being for themselves and their five children, and encouraged anyone needing help to use available resources.
The statement also noted the Belichicks' continued support for the program and confidence in the UNC defense’s readiness.
Earlier reports from WRAL indicated that an internal UNC football investigation had questioned witnesses about possible drug use involving Steve Belichick. During the same period, his brother Brian assumed defensive play-calling duties for head coach Bill Belichick, who is in his second year at UNC.