Michael Lombardi has resigned as the general manager for the University of North Carolina football program, ESPN reported Thursday. Lombardi had been on paid leave since late July, pending the outcome of an internal investigation into a complaint filed by a former front office employee.
Lombardi joined the Tar Heels' staff before the 2025 season, working alongside head coach Bill Belichick. The two had a long working history, previously collaborating with the Cleveland Browns and the New England Patriots, where Lombardi served as an assistant to the coaching staff. His career also includes stints with other NFL organizations, including the San Francisco 49ers, Philadelphia Eagles, Las Vegas Raiders, and Denver Broncos.
Allegations and Defense
The investigation reportedly focused on allegations that Lombardi bullied employees, disregarded compliance guidelines, and maintained excessive oversight of staff activities. Lombardi's attorney, Tom Mars, has characterized the school's investigation as a "witch hunt." In a statement to The Athletic, Mars suggested that if UNC had sufficient grounds to terminate Lombardi for cause, they would have done so already.
Mars also stated that Lombardi had been fully compliant with the investigation and had previously expressed expectations for the probe to be "swift, thorough and fair."
According to USA Today, Lombardi was the highest-paid general manager in the NCAA, with a salary of $1.5 million. Mars questioned the motive behind the extensive investigation, suggesting that the $1.5 million buyout figure did not fully explain the school's actions, especially since institutions can often pay buyouts for personnel without cause.
Team Performance
The Tar Heels experienced a disappointing 4-8 record in their first year under Coach Belichick in 2025. However, the team began the 2026 season with a strong performance last Saturday, defeating TCU 15-10.