University of North Carolina head coach Bill Belichick addressed an ongoing investigation into his football program on Monday, stating his focus remains on preparing the team for upcoming games.
Michael Lombardi, UNC's football general manager and a key associate of Belichick, resigned last week. The resignation occurred as investigators reportedly probe allegations of drug use and sexual relationships among players and staff within the program. Barnes & Thornburg LLP, a law firm hired by UNC, is leading the investigation.
Investigators are also examining claims involving Belichick's son, Steve, who serves as the team's defensive coordinator. Steve Belichick is currently on medical leave from the team. His father confirmed he has spoken with Lombardi since his departure but did not offer further details.
"My focus is on getting the team ready to play [East Tennessee State]," Belichick told reporters. "I'm not involved in any other part of the process. My job is to get the team ready to play this weekend and that's what we're going to do."
When asked if the program maintained compliance, Belichick responded, "Yeah, totally."
"In the end, we want to run the program in the very best way, and if there's things we need to do to correct it, we'll obviously do them," he added.
Lombardi, 67, had been on paid administrative leave since July following an internal human resources complaint filed by a former staffer. He was reportedly the highest-paid general manager in college football, earning $1.5 million annually from UNC.
The WRAL report alleges that lawyers are questioning individuals about whether Steve Belichick used drugs while at work or supplied them to at least one player. Additionally, lawyers are investigating claims of a sexual relationship between a member of the Tar Heels' recruiting staff and a player. Inquiries have also been made regarding potential sexual relationships between other assistant coaches and members of the recruiting staff.
Those being interviewed by investigators include current and former players, their parents, and staff members. Lombardi was also interviewed.
Lombardi issued a statement through his attorney, Tom Mars, thanking Chancellor Lee Roberts and Bill Belichick for the opportunity to serve as GM and stating his resignation was to allow the team to focus on the upcoming season.
Shortly after Lombardi was placed on leave, Belichick announced that his son, Steve, was taking medical leave. At the time, Belichick described it as a "medical situation" and could not provide further comment.
Lombardi's resignation and the expanding investigation mark a challenging period for Belichick early in his second season as head coach of the Tar Heels. The team finished with a 4-8 record in 2025. The Tar Heels began their 2026 season with a 15-10 victory over TCU in Dublin, Ireland, and are scheduled to play East Tennessee State on September 12.