Chapel Hill, North Carolina has made a significant financial commitment to Bill Belichick, the legendary NFL coach, by offering him a five-year deal. The University of North Carolina announced that the 72-year-old Belichick will receive a yearly salary of $10 million, which is a substantial increase from the $5 million paid to the previous coach, Mack Brown, in his final season. While the contract is for five years, only the first three years are guaranteed, which is quite uncommon for college football contracts.
Belichick’s contract includes a provision that reduces the buyout to leave to $1 million after June 1, 2025, making it easier for him to exit for an NFL opportunity if one were to arise. Despite concerns about his age and commitment to college football, Belichick stated during his introductory press conference that he has no intentions of leaving. Only seven coaches in FBS made over $10 million in 2024, with schools often offering lengthy contracts to attract top coaching talent for recruiting purposes.
The eight-time Super Bowl-winning coach, who has never coached in college football before, has expressed interest in a succession plan that may involve his son, Steve, taking over the UNC program in the future. Belichick, who previously worked with renowned coach Nick Saban, had a successful tenure with the New England Patriots before parting ways after the 2023 season. After spending the 2024 season in various media roles, Belichick is now set to lead the UNC program.
Belichick will be replacing the 73-year-old Brown, who was let go after a mediocre record in his six seasons at UNC. Brown had previously led the UNC program in the 1980s and 1990s, with multiple bowl appearances to his name. The financial incentives and bonus opportunities included in Belichick’s contract reflect the high expectations placed on him to lead the UNC football program to success. With his vast experience and success in the NFL, Belichick’s arrival in college football has generated significant interest and anticipation.