CHAPEL HILL — University of North Carolina defensive coordinator Steve Belichick is resigning following an internal investigation that found actions within the football program demonstrating “a disregard for Carolina’s values and standards of conduct,” the university announced Thursday.
Belichick, the son of head coach Bill Belichick, has been on medical leave for more than a month. His resignation takes effect October 27, when the medical leave concludes, according to the university. Specific details regarding the medical leave have not been publicly disclosed.
Investigation Focus and Findings
Outside investigators hired by UNC previously questioned individuals close to the program about whether Steve Belichick had used drugs on the job or provided drugs to at least one player, according to people familiar with the investigation who spoke with WRAL.
UNC stated Thursday that its internal investigation into the “culture and climate” of the football program found actions that demonstrated “a disregard for Carolina’s values and standards of conduct.”
“The investigation determined that certain actions demonstrated a disregard for Carolina’s values and standards of conduct,” UNC said in a statement. “The investigation also found that these actions were isolated in scope and not a systemic failure.”
Leadership Departures
The development follows the resignation of General Manager Michael Lombardi, a longtime confidant of Bill Belichick, two weeks earlier. Lombardi was placed on paid administrative leave before the season and resigned on September 3, minutes before WRAL published a report about the expanding internal probe.
Player Suspension
Additionally, freshman wide receiver Keeyun Chapman has been suspended indefinitely by the program. Chapman faces a gun charge after he was a passenger in a teammate’s car during a traffic stop Tuesday.
“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,” the university said. “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.”
Contract Details and Upcoming Game
Steve Belichick is in the final year of a two-year, $2.7 million contract. He previously served as the defensive coordinator at the University of Washington.
North Carolina visits Clemson for its first ACC game of the season Saturday.
Full UNC Statement
“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.”
