Report: Bill Belichick discussed buyout options with UNC

Field Level Media|published: Wed 8th October, 21:32 2025

Sep 13, 2025; Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels head coach Bill Belichick on the sidelines in the second quarter at Kenan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images

Not even halfway through his first season, Bill Belichick already discussed buyout options with North Carolina, according to a report by the Guardian on Wednesday.

Belichick's first season coaching college football after winning eight Super Bowls (six as a head coach, two as a defensive coordinator) has been disastrous.

The Tar Heels fell to 2-3 after a 38-10 home loss to Clemson on Saturday. North Carolina has lost all three of its games against Power 4 competition by a combined margin of 120-33.

Belichick, 73, expressed potential interest in finding a coaching or media job that could offset the $1 million buyout he would owe North Carolina if he leaves for another job, per the Guardian.

North Carolina would owe Belichick $20 million if it fires him unless it is able to do so with cause.

Tar Heels assistant coach Armond Hawkins was suspended Tuesday for providing illegal benefits (sideline passes to a game) to a player's family members, according to multiple media reports. The Guardian also reported that the school is already aware of practice and recruiting violations that have occurred, perhaps setting the stage for a with-cause dismissal.

Per the Guardian, Belichick's communication with staff members has been described as "weird" and "distant." Multiple coaches reportedly were unable to contact the head coach during the team's recent bye week.

One North Carolina defensive assistant told the Guardian, "What we've done to these kids is f--- up."

North Carolina is currently in its second and final bye week of the season. The Tar Heels begin a stretch of seven straight games on Oct. 17 at Cal.

--Field Level Media