UNC's Bill Belichick Says Son and Defensive Coordinator Steve Belichick Is on Medical Leave
Bill Belichick said his son will return as soon as possible, while the Tar Heels staff covers defensive duties during preseason camp.
- On Thursday, North Carolina defensive coordinator Steve Belichick was placed on medical leave, head coach Bill Belichick announced. The elder Belichick did not provide a specific timeline for his son's return, only stating he hoped to have him back "as soon as possible."
- Defensive coaching staff members will handle responsibilities collectively during Steve's absence, Bill Belichick confirmed. He noted the team is not starting from scratch because most coaches remained through spring and summer, leaving the unit "ahead of where we were last year."
- Uncertainty surrounds whether Steve will return in time for the Tar Heels' season opener against Texas Christian University on August 29 in Dublin, Ireland. Bill Belichick declined to elaborate on a timeline, citing the private nature of the "medical situation."
- The program also faces instability after the school placed general manager Michael Lombardi on paid administrative leave last week pending an investigation. Lombardi joined the Tar Heels in December 2024, reuniting with the head coach following their shared tenure with the New England Patriots.
- North Carolina enters the 2026 season looking to improve following a disappointing 4-8 campaign last year. The team faces key challenges early in the schedule, with non-conference games against Clemson and Notre Dame looming in late September and early October.
32 Articles
32 Articles
Steve Belichick on medical leave ahead of North Carolina's 2026 season opener
North Carolina's defensive coordinator Steve Belichick is on medical leave from the team. Head coach Bill Belichick confirmed his son's absence due to a medical issue. The Tar Heels are preparing for their 2026 season opener against TCU in Ireland. The team's defensive coaching staff will manage responsibilities internally during his absence. This development adds uncertainty as the Tar Heels begin their new season.
Bill Belichick says son and defensive coordinator on medical leave from UNC
Sep 6, 2025; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels defensive coach Steve Belichick during the first quarter against the Charlotte 49ers at Jerry Richardson Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images
Bill Belichick makes major announcement about son Steve
Aug 29, 2021; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick looks up during the first half against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports North Carolina head coach Bill Belichick made a significant announcement about his son, Tar Heels defensive coordinator Steve Belichick. Bill Belichick announced Thursday that Steve has been placed on indefinite medical l…
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