North Carolina defensive coordinator Steve Belichick has resigned from his position, the university announced Thursday. The resignation will come into effect on Oct. 27, when Belichick concludes his ongoing medical leave. The son of head coach Bill Belichick, Steve’s resignation comes as the school simultaneously announced the end of its investigation into the culture and climate of the Tar Heels football program.
“The investigation determined that certain actions demonstrated a disregard for
Carolina’s values and standards of conduct,” the university said in a statement. “The investigation also found that these actions were isolated in scope and not a systemic failure.”
Belichick, 39, served as North Carolina’s defensive coordinator last season and was also a member of his dad’s staff during his time with the NFL’s Patriots. Steve Belichick was placed on medical leave on Aug. 6. An interim coordinator was not named, with Bill’s other son, safeties coach Brian Belichick, taking over play-calling duties, according to multiple reports.
UNC general manager Michael Lombardi resigned from the program effective Sept. 3, a few days after the Tar Heels’ season-opening win over TCU. Lombardi had been placed on administrative leave in late July as part of the investigation. The school also announced Thursday that freshman wide receiver Keeyun Chapman has been suspended indefinitely after an incident Tuesday night. According to multiple reports, Chapman was arrested for carrying a concealed handgun, and teammate C.J. Sadler was cited for speeding during a traffic stop.
“Chapman’s suspension, like the actions resulting from the investigation, reflect the
University’s commitment to accountability and the well-being of its student athletes,” the statement said. “We believe the steps announced today will help make Carolina Football a stronger program and one that continues to earn the pride of the entire Carolina community.”
On the field, North Carolina holds a 2-0 record heading into a high-profile game at Clemson (12 p.m. E.T.) on Saturday.
