Steve Belichick Resigns as North Carolina’s Defensive Coordinator—UNC’s Statement on Investigation

Steve Belichick (son of Bill Belichick) has resigned as North Carolina’s defensive coordinator. He’s been on medical leave since August 6. This marks UNC football’s second high-profile resignation this month, as GM Michael Lombardi resigned on Sept. 3. UNC confirms and considers the internal investigation resolved: “The investigation determined that certain actions demonstrated a disregard for Carolina’s values and standards of conduct. The investigation also found that these actions were isolated in scope and not a systemic failure.”

Back in early September, UNC GM Michael Lombardi had resigned from his position. Lombardi had been on paid administrative leave since July 27 with an internal investigation happening.

Simultaneously, the UNC investigation continued to be ongoing. It also eventually expanded beyond Michael Lombardi. According to WRAL 5 News in NC (NBC affiliate), investigators asked people about whether DC Steve Belichick used drugs at university facilities or provided drugs to at least one player.

Investigators also asked about an alleged sexual relationship between a member of UNC’s recruiting staff and a player, as well as possible relationships between assistant coaches and recruiting staff. During this time period Steve Belichick remained on medical leave.

However, now here is North Carolina’s statement on the outcome of its internal investigation and the resignation of defensive coordinator Steve Belichick:

“The University has concluded a thorough and independent investigation into allegations related to culture and climate within the Carolina football program.

The investigation determined that certain actions demonstrated a disregard for Carolina’s values and standards of conduct. The investigation also found that these actions were isolated in scope and not a systemic failure.

As the University previously announced, General Manager Michael Lombardi resigned from the program effective September 3. Steve Belichick has resigned from his position of defensive coordinator, effective October 27, 2026, following the conclusion of his current medical leave.

Throughout the investigation, the University has been guided by the legal advice of outside counsel. All necessary corrective actions are now underway and will be overseen by Carolina Athletics and the Office of University Counsel. With these actions, the University considers the investigation to be resolved.

Consistent with University policy regarding personnel matters, there will be no further comment on individuals. As always, should credible new information arise, the University will evaluate it and take appropriate action consistent with its policies and responsibilities.

Separately, Carolina Football has suspended Keeyun Chapman from the team indefinitely in connection with an incident Tuesday night.

Chapman’s suspension, like the actions resulting from the investigation, reflect the University’s commitment to accountability and the well-being of its student athletes. We believe the steps announced today will help make Carolina Football a stronger program and one that continues to earn the pride of the entire Carolina community.”

Steve Belichick Resigns as North Carolina’s Defensive Coordinator—UNC’s Statement on Investigation

So then, what happens now with Steve’s resignation now official? Who shall fill his position? Well, secondary coach Brian Belichick is currently expected to be North Carolina’s defensive play-caller moving forward. Brian has now called UNC’s first two games, as was reported by The Athletics’ Bruce Feldman. Therefore, the expectation is he’ll continue on as the play-caller.

Brian Belichick spent nine years with the New England Patriots, including the last five as safeties coach, before joining the UNC staff. Regarding Brian, Bruce Feldman reported Thursday morning, “As we mentioned on The audible show yesterday, Brian Belichick has been calling the defense for UNC in the Tar Heels first two games, and we’ve been told by sources the vibe around the football building has been much better since Mike Lombardi and Steve Belichick haven’t been there.”

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