College Football

Bill Belichick Contract: Will North Carolina Head Coach Leave For NFL?

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Bill Belichick Contract: Will North Carolina Head Coach Leave For NFL?

North Carolina football made headlines last month when Bill Belichick agreed to become the program’s head coach. According to reports, Belichick has not signed a contract.

Bill Belichick Contract Situation

Per CBS Sports, Belichick has not signed a contract with North Carolina, even though the university announced the signing in December. The school even held a press conference to introduce Belichick.

Why has Belichick not signed a contract? This could have something to do with his buyout. If Belichick terminates his employment before June 1, 2025, the buyout is $10 million. After that date, the buyout decreases to $1 million.

If Belichick left for the NFL before that date, this creates a legal gray area. Does the NFL team hiring Belichick have to pay the buyout? Would Belichick have to pay for it himself? Without a contract, does the entire buyout need to be paid?

Belichick and Nate Knuffman, UNC’s vice chancellor for finance and operations, signed the term sheet to a contract. Per CBS Sports’ sources, signing a term sheet before executing the entire contract is typical. “Schools drag their feet like crazy,” said one of the sources in the report.

North Carolina’s GM Shuts Down Belichick To NFL Rumors

Earlier this month, NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reported that multiple NFL teams have inquired about Belichick and if he would depart North Carolina to come back to the pros.

After CBS’ story broke, North Carolina general manager Michael Lombardi stated Belichick will stay in college and coach the Tar Heels.

“Bill is recruiting in DC today and Baltimore tomorrow,” Lombardi said on X. “His focus is on North Carolina football, hiring staff members and developing the team. The NFL isnt a option so please stop making it one. Thank you.”

Belichick’s girlfriend, Jordan Hudson, also posted a photo on Instagram with the coach. The caption reads, “Two people who are overtly committed to @uncfootball.”

For now, Belichick will remain at North Carolina.