An unexpected wrench has been thrown into the efforts of legendary NFL coach Bill Belichick to have a better second season at the college level.
On Monday morning, the University of North Carolina placed UNC football General Manager Michael Lombardi on paid administrative leave.
Here’s the full statement: “The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has placed Michael Lombardi, general manager for the Carolina football program, on paid administrative leave, effective immediately. As is standard procedure with personnel matters, leadership, staff, and student-athletes are prohibited from addressing this topic further, and has no reflection on the merits.” (Someone didn’t proofread the second sentence very carefully.)
No further information has been disclosed.
Lombardi, a former NFL executive who served at one point as G.M. of the Browns, was the first key hire by Belichick after he got the job in December 2024. Lombardi is the table-setter when it comes to talent. (Last year, the table was missing plenty of utensils. And plates.)
Belichick is an excellent coach, when it comes to preparation and game-day decisions. At the college level, talent becomes the difference-maker.
With nothing disclosed or reported (yet) about the underlying reason for the move, it’s impossible to know how long it will last. Or whether it will result in a suspension, a resignation, or a termination.
And while the hay is in the barn for the 2026 UNC roster, recruiting and evaluation never end. For now, the Tar Heels won’t have the top employee responsibility for figuring out who they want in the future, and how to get them.
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