North Carolina defensive coordinator Steve Belichick is on medical leave, head coach Bill Belichick announced Thursday. The announcement comes as the Tar Heels prepare for their upcoming season.
"Just want to let everyone know that my son Steve’s on medical leave, and look forward to getting him back as soon as possible," Bill Belichick told reporters during his media availability. "It’s a medical situation so I really can’t make any further comment on that."
Steve Belichick's absence adds to an already challenging offseason for the North Carolina football program. General manager Michael Lombardi was placed on administrative leave on July 27 following a human resources complaint.
"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," the university stated at the time. "As is standard procedure with personnel matters, leadership, staff, and student-athletes are prohibited from addressing this topic further, and has no reflection on its merits."
Lombardi has hired attorney Tom Mars, who stated that his client has not been informed of the investigation's nature and welcomes the opportunity to clear his name. Mars added that Lombardi is fully cooperating with UNC and expects the investigation to be swift, thorough, and fair.
The university has hired three outside attorneys to assist in the investigation into the human resources complaint against Lombardi, according to a WRAL-TV report.
The upcoming season is considered pivotal for North Carolina, which finished with a 4-8 record in the previous year. Bill Belichick's tenure has faced scrutiny, with questions arising about the program's trajectory and reliance on the transfer portal. The team is set to open its season against TCU.
