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UNC football adjusts amid absences of Michael Lombardi and Steve Belichick

2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 17, 2026, 2:12 PM

Last updated Aug 17, 2026

UNC football adjusts amid absences of Michael Lombardi and Steve Belichick

Summary

Bill Belichick, head coach of UNC football, addressed the ongoing situations involving general manager Michael Lombardi and defensive coordinator Steve Belichick during a press conference on August 14. Lombardi is on paid administrative leave, while Steve Belichick is on medical leave. Despite these challenges, Belichick stated that the team is managing effectively, with players stepping up. The impending recruitment period begins September 1, and the Tar Heels are preparing for their upcoming season opener against TCU in Ireland in just under two weeks. A UNC spokesperson noted that details regarding Lombardi's status are not being disclosed at this time.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Bill Belichick says UNC is managing Lombardi and Steve Belichick's absences well.
•Michael Lombardi is on paid administrative leave since July 27.
•Steve Belichick is currently on medical leave.
•UNC's season opener against TCU is scheduled for late August.
•The recruiting evaluation period resumes September 1.

Latest Updates

2:12 PMYahoo Sports — Bill Belichick gives update on UNC amid Michael Lombardi, Steve Belichick absences
8:14 PMYahoo Sports — Bill Belichick, UNC football adjusting amid Michael Lombardi, Steve Belichick absences

What they're saying

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Bill Belichick said Aug. 14 that North Carolina is "adjusting" without Michael Lombardi and Steve Belichick while they're away from the program.
— Yahoo Sports