The UNC Tar Heels are a fabled school in the collegiate sports paradigm. However, that stems from the hardwood, not the gridiron. When the football program abruptly dismissed their winningest HC, Mack Brown, most expected them to pivot. Pivot into perhaps chancing on a young, up-and-coming coach garnering plaudits somewhere as a coordinator. Maybe even lure a CFB head coach to jump ship. What transpired is the most shocking revelation to hit the sport in eons- they hired Bill Belichick.

Naturally, fans and the media alike were appalled at the proverbial GOAT Belichick taking this perceived step downwards from the NFL. Even people who’ve had direct working relationships with him stood bemused at this career choice. So much so that there was an underlying yet prevalent belief that he wouldn’t last long in North Carolina. Lots have vocalized concern that Belichick could leave UNC at any moment if the opportunity arises. To be fair, Belichick’s own actions have gone some way to thwart this notion. However, the latest wrinkle from his situation in Chapel Hill only adds fuel to this simmering fire.

In a sensational revelation that’s equal parts damning and shrewd, Bill Belichick is yet to put pen to paper on his UNC contract. This was reported by CBS’ Jonathan Jones. Belichick has been working head coaching duties already and even hit the road to link potential recruits. All this while, he wasn’t even contractually obligated? That’s baffling and doesn’t dispel the NFL rumors one bit.

Conventional wisdom dictated that Bill Belichick’s next foray out of the media and onto the sidelines will indeed come in the NFL. With the multitude of franchises parting with their coaches, it seemed imminent that one of them would swoop in for him. Afterall, he’s arguably the greatest defensive mind the sport has seen. A perennial winner of the highest accord. Belichick’s UNC contract initially has a $10 million buyout, but this is rather fallacious. This figure drops down to $1 million on June 1st, 2025. Before the NFL and CFB seasons even begin. That is, if he even signs it! Jones’ report also stated how this development indeed introduces a “gray area as to how much — if any — of the $10M buyout would be paid should he bolt for the NFL”

With this dramatic scenario coming to light, the social media sphere were quick to chime in with their thoughts. It’s safe to say that there is no consensus opinion one way or the other. Some believe it’s being blown out of proportion, while others think there’s no smoke without fire. Fans of all persuasions took this debate to the comments section of the aforementioned post.

Social media verse reacts to Bill Belichick not signing his UNC contract yet

One fan believed there is a more convoluted game at play here. “It really seems like a negotiating tactic by his agent to me.  There’s no reason for him to go to the college level, barring he absolutely wanted to, and I just don’t see that with him.” they said. To be fair, NFL franchises weren’t exactly chomping at the bit to onboard Bill Belichick before he made this move. Another fan agreed with this notion though, saying “Definitely in play if you know his history. He don’t give af about some damn Chapel Hill if the right NFL job pops up”

One person said “He is waiting for Jerry Jones’ call” That could be true,  however Jerry seems to have his eyes on a different CFB coach. Alas, this is one, more skeptical side of the coin. Not everyone shared this school of thought. One person linked this to a similar predicament from last year. “That happens more often that you think. [Sherrone] Moore went a while into his first year as coach without a signed contract at Michigan.” they said.

“No he’s loyal and has a close circle and have brought guys there I don’t think he would leave.” said another. Belichick has tagged along long-time associate Micheal Lombardi to be GM of the Tar Heels. As well as uprooted his son Steve Belichick to be defensive coordinator, a role he previously occupied with the Washington Huskies. It’s noteworthy though that Lombardi, too, hasn’t signed his contract yet.

One person gave an indicting take on Belichick, saying “that’s so corny if Bill leaves UNC already… keep your word man” Bill Belichick lost some of his reverence in the later stages of his New England tenure. A move away from the Tar Heels before coaching a single game won’t help his somewhat blemished legacy. The signs do point to him staying put. But football is a fickle sport, and you just never really know. A long offseason beckons.