Bill Belichick's Son Resigns from UNC Amid Investigation and Personal Strife
Steve Belichick steps down from his coaching role at the University of North Carolina shortly after being placed on medical leave and following reports of a widening investigation into the football program.
Steve Belichick, son of NFL coach Bill Belichick, has resigned from his position as defensive coordinator at the University of North Carolina. His resignation follows a period of mysterious medical leave initiated just weeks prior.
His departure occurs amidst a widening investigation into the UNC football program. According to WRAL, investigators are reportedly examining allegations of drug use and distribution involving Steve Belichick, with questions arising about whether he used drugs or supplied them to at least one player on the Tar Heels roster.
The investigation, conducted by Barnes & Thornburg LLP hired by UNC, also includes inquiries into potential sexual relationships between staff and players, as well as among staff members. Investigators are reportedly interviewing current and former players, their parents, and staff, seeking documents and communications related to the program's culture and any reported questionable behavior.
This development follows the resignation of Michael Lombardi, a key ally of Bill Belichick and UNC's football general manager, earlier in September. Lombardi had been placed on paid administrative leave in July following an internal human resources complaint.
Steve Belichick had joined the UNC coaching staff after a stint with the New England Patriots, where he worked under his father and contributed to three Super Bowl victories. He also spent the 2024 season at the University of Washington before moving to Chapel Hill.
In a separate personal matter that reportedly surfaced last November, Steve Belichick's wife, Jen, is alleged to have had a public confrontation with Bill Belichick's partner, Jordon Hudson. Reports claim Jen Belichick accused Hudson of negatively influencing the elder Belichick and presented him with an ultimatum to choose between his family and Hudson.
These recent events represent a challenging period for Bill Belichick, who is in his second season as head coach of the Tar Heels. The team posted a 4-8 record in his inaugural 2025 season and has started the 2026 season with two wins. UNC faces challenging upcoming games against Clemson and Notre Dame.