Steve Belichick, son of NFL coaching legend Bill Belichick and North Carolina's defensive coordinator, will not be with the Tar Heels for their season opener against TCU in Dublin, Ireland. He has been on indefinite medical leave since early August and was not part of the team that arrived in Ireland on Thursday.
While North Carolina has not provided specific details regarding Steve Belichick's absence, reports indicate he will not be with the team for the game. Bill Belichick is expected to resume play-calling duties, having worked closely with defensive line coach Bob Diaco on defensive game preparation during his son's absence. Bill Belichick stated earlier in the week that he has called plays on offense, defense, and in the kicking game throughout his coaching career and expressed confidence in his staff.
Steve Belichick's absence follows reports of a significant dispute involving his wife, Jen Belichick, and Bill Belichick's partner, Jordon Hudson. According to reports, Jen Belichick engaged in a lengthy, public confrontation with Hudson, allegedly criticizing her relationship with the elder Belichick and urging him to prioritize his family. These claims surfaced after reports that Belichick's family had begun investigating Hudson out of concern she could negatively impact his legacy.
Steve Belichick, a former assistant on his father's New England Patriots staff, joined the UNC program after a stint as defensive coordinator at Washington. He and his wife have been married for nearly a decade and have several children. Hudson has been a regular presence around the UNC football team.
The Tar Heels' season opener is scheduled to take place in Dublin this Saturday.