University of North Carolina football General Manager Michael Lombardi has reportedly resigned from his position, a development that comes as head coach Bill Belichick enters his second season with the Tar Heels.
Lombardi joined Belichick in Chapel Hill in December 2024, shortly after the legendary coach's move to college football. He was placed on paid administrative leave in July following an internal human resources complaint filed by a former staffer. At the time of his leave, Lombardi was reportedly the highest-paid GM in college football, earning $1.5 million annually.
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill released a statement regarding the ongoing investigation. "As a result of concerns behind allegations that led to the personnel action regarding Michael Lombardi announced on July 27, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, through its Office of University Counsel, is in the process of investigating this matter," the statement read. "Because this involves confidential personnel issues, the University will not comment on the nature of the allegations or discuss personnel information."
Lombardi has retained attorney Tom Mars, who issued a statement denying any wrongdoing on his client's behalf. "Michael hasn't been told anything about the nature of UNC's investigation and welcomes the opportunity to clear his name, which has already been sullied by baseless statements and innuendo on social media," Mars stated.
Lombardi and Belichick have a long history, dating back to 1987 when they worked together with the Cleveland Browns. Lombardi has been a public defender of Belichick, particularly regarding the attention on the head coach's personal relationship with girlfriend Jordon Hudson. In June, Lombardi dismissed criticism of the relationship as "noise" and a "completely false narrative" from those seeking to disrupt the UNC program.
Belichick, speaking to reporters as the Tar Heels began training camp last month, addressed Lombardi's absence and how front-office duties were being managed. "We're at a particular time of the year now where there are certain things that are in play, and certain things that are in play that will happen later in the calendar year," Belichick said. "So we're taking it day to day and working through the things that are on the table right now." He acknowledged that adjustments had been made but that the process was moving forward.
The off-field turmoil follows a challenging first season for Belichick at UNC, which concluded with a 4-8 record in 2025. The Tar Heels' 2026 season opened last week with a 15-10 victory over TCU in Dublin, Ireland. Their next game is scheduled for September 12 against East Tennessee State.