Bill Belichick says a European franchise is ultimately a decision for the NFL and Commissioner Roger Goodell, though he’s fully supportive of the league’s push to grow the game overseas.
The six-time Super Bowl-winning coach spoke to reporters in Dublin ahead of Saturday’s American College Classic, where his North Carolina Tar Heels open the season against TCU.
Belichick Weighs In On a Possible European NFL Franchise
Belichick spent 23 years with the New England Patriots before taking over at North Carolina in 2025. At 74, he’s regarded as one of the greatest coaches in NFL history.
Asked directly whether he’d like to see a European franchise become reality, Belichick deferred to the league office, calling it a question for Goodell rather than something he’d push for himself.
He pointed to the NFL’s international schedule as evidence the league is serious about building a global audience, and said the atmosphere at every international game he’s been part of has been outstanding.
Jacksonville’s London Flirtation and the Travel Question
Belichick brought up the Jaguars’ past exploration of a potential move to Wembley, a plan that never materialized as Jacksonville instead built a new stadium at home in Florida.
He doesn’t think travel logistics would be the deciding factor against a European franchise.
In his view, a trip to London isn’t dramatically different from an East Coast team flying to Seattle or Los Angeles, even if the total time in the air runs longer.
Why Belichick Cares About Growing the Game Internationally
Belichick framed his involvement in Saturday’s game as a way of giving back to a sport that’s shaped his entire career and his family’s life.
He noted that football already has a real following outside the U.S., pointing to local leagues he’s encountered in countries like Croatia and Germany.
He said he wants to support that growth wherever it’s happening, domestically or abroad.
No Return to the NFL on Belichick’s Mind
With reporters curious whether he’d ever coach in the NFL again, Belichick made clear his attention is fully on North Carolina right now.
He said he personally recruited the players on his current roster and feels a responsibility to see that commitment through, adding that he’s excited about where the program is headed.
What’s Next for Belichick and North Carolina
Saturday’s opener against TCU in Dublin marks Belichick’s first game action of the season and an early test of how his rebuild at North Carolina is progressing.
The international showcase also doubles as a preview of the kind of global stage college football, and potentially the NFL, could lean into more heavily in the years ahead.
