Bill Belichick, who recently took over as North Carolina’s head football coach, has been adjusting to his role in Chapel Hill over the past month. However, uncertainty regarding his contract status has raised some eyebrows.
Last month, reports suggested that Belichick’s deal was valued at $50 million over five years. Despite this, recent updates indicate that the contract has yet to be finalized. Adding intrigue, sources suggest that NFL teams, including the Las Vegas Raiders, have shown interest in the veteran coach.
Contract Details
The proposed agreement for Belichick would pay him $10 million annually, positioning him among the top earners in college football.
The contract includes a noteworthy buyout clause stipulating that if he leaves UNC before June 1, 2025, he must pay the school $10 million. After this date, the amount decreases to $1 million.
CBS Sports’ Jonathan Jones reports that Belichick has only signed a term sheet rather than a full contract. While such preliminary agreements are common in college athletics, they create ambiguity around the enforceability of the buyout clause. According to Jones’ sources, this gap in formalizing the deal leaves room for legal interpretation regarding any buyout if Belichick exits.
The term sheet includes a statement clarifying its non-binding nature:
“The University proposes to enter into an Employment Agreement with Bill Belichick to serve as the Head Football Coach. It is understood and agreed that this proposal of terms and conditions shall not constitute a binding agreement, and the parties intend to negotiate expeditiously and in good faith to finalize these terms and conditions into a long-form agreement.”
Criticism and Speculation
Former ESPN NFL insider Ed Werder, however, asserts that the agreement is binding. Meanwhile, Pro Football Talk’s Mike Florio speculated earlier this week that Belichick’s slow pace in assembling his coaching staff—currently consisting of just six members—could indicate a potential return to the NFL.
Florio’s report noted that UNC officials remain uneasy about the possibility of Belichick invoking the buyout clause and leaving.
Current UNC Coaching Staff
Belichick’s son, Steve, serves as UNC’s defensive coordinator, alongside Freddie Kitchens, a staff member since 2023.
Other known hires include Michael Lombardi as an advisor, special teams coach Mike Priefer, offensive line coach Will Friend, and strength coach Moses Cabrera, a former New England colleague.
Michael Lombardi has dismissed the notion of Belichick’s potential departure, countering both Florio and Jones’ claims.
NFL Openings and Potential Moves
There are currently six head coaching vacancies in the NFL, including positions with the New York Jets, Dallas Cowboys, Chicago Bears, New Orleans Saints, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Las Vegas Raiders.
Reports have suggested that Belichick has been in contact with Tom Brady, a minority owner of the Raiders, regarding their coaching vacancy.
Although Belichick remains UNC’s head coach for now, lingering uncertainties about his unsigned contract and buyout terms continue to fuel speculation.
