CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — Bill Belichick is stepping into the college football arena for the first time in his career. He called the opportunity “a dream come true” during a press conference on Thursday afternoon.
Belichick was introduced as the next head football coach at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill at the press conference. It took place at the Kenan Memorial Stadium.
Belichick praised the Tar Heels' legacy and is looking forward to being the team’s next head coach.
"I’ve always wanted to coach in college football, and this is the perfect opportunity," Belichick said. "UNC’s commitment to excellence on and off the field makes this an ideal fit."
Family Ties and NFL Coaching Career
Family ties to UNC run deep for Belichick. His father, Steve, served as an assistant coach at UNC from 1953 to 1955. He brought his father’s vintage UNC sweatshirt to the press conference.
"My first words as a kid were ‘Beat Duke,’" Belichick said.
Belichick has a long-standing history with the NFL as a coach. Belichick was previously a coach with the New England Patriots. He has six Super Bowl wins with the Patriots and over 300 career regular-season wins.
Belichick and the Patriots mutually parted ways in January 2024. He spent 24 seasons with the New England Patriots.
Looking Forward
UNC Chancellor Lee Roberts described Belichick’s hiring as a testament to the university’s commitment to excellence. He expressed UNC’s ambitions to compete at the highest level of collegiate athletics.
"This is an incredible day for Carolina Athletics," Athletic Director Bubba Cunningham said. "College football is evolving, and we want to lead the way."
According to CBS Sports, the terms of Belichick's contract are reported to be $10 million annually. This totals to $50 million for Belichick over his five-year deal with the university.
Belichick said his plans for UNC’s football program are designed to prepare players for both the NFL and success beyond football.
Immediate Challenges and Goals
Two areas Belichick said he will focus on as he prepares the Tar Heels for the next season are recruiting and player development. He acknowledged the challenges of transitioning from the NFL to college football but remains hopeful in his ability to adapt.
"I’m here to teach, develop, and build," Belichick said. "Success starts with fundamentals and a focus on daily improvement."
Sports fans and alumni believe Belichick’s hire will be a turning point for the program and remain confident the team will once again be a dominant force in college football.
How Belichick Became UNC’s Next Head Football Coach
Belichick’s interest in the coaching gig at UNC goes back to his appearance on ESPN’s Pat McAfee Show.
He revealed he spoke to UNC Chancellor Lee Roberts about the role, where he would replace former head coach Mack Brown. Brown was fired in late November.
The search process for a new head coach was delayed after reports of tension between UNC Athletic Director Bubba Cunningham and Board of Trustees chair John Preyer, according to The Athletic.
Belichick was offered a preliminary deal after Preyer and several other board members reportedly reached out to him directly.
On Wednesday, the university reached an agreement to make Belichick the next head football coach. He agreed to a five-year contract with the university.
UNC’s Board of Trustees approved Belichick’s head football coach contract earlier this morning during an emergency meeting.
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