UNC football coordinator Steve Belichick on medical leave

The University of North Carolina football program is navigating a turbulent preseason as head coach Bill Belichick announced Thursday that his son and defensive coordinator, Steve Belichick, is on medical leave. The announcement compounds existing off-field turmoil surrounding the program, including an ongoing investigation into general manager Michael Lombardi.

Bill Belichick made the announcement during a media availability, stating his son is on leave for a medical situation and that he could not provide further details. He expressed hope for Steve's return "as soon as possible" but declined to specify whether the coordinator would be available for the team's season opener against TCU in Dublin, Ireland, on August 29. When asked who would handle defensive play-calling duties in Steve's absence, Belichick said the defensive staff would work collectively and that they would "see" how the situation develops.

Steve Belichick, 39, is entering his second season as the Tar Heels' defensive coordinator after following his father to Chapel Hill in December 2024. He previously served one season as defensive coordinator at the University of Washington following a long tenure on his...