Bill Belichick Signs UNC Contract, NFL Exit Clause Raises Eyebrows

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — The University of North Carolina released details Friday regarding head football coach Bill Belichick‘s contract, confirming the NFL legend has officially signed a five-year deal worth $10 million annually. However, a $10 million buyout clause has sparked speculation about his long-term commitment to the Tar Heels.

Belichick, 72, signed the contract after weeks of speculation about his future. The deal includes performance-based bonuses, such as $200,000 for an ACC title game appearance, $300,000 for an ACC championship win, and $1.75 million for a national title. Yet, the termination clause allows Belichick to leave UNC before June 1, 2025, by paying $10 million, or $1 million if he departs after that date.

“The deal is signed, which is why UNC has released the details via state open record laws,” ESPN‘s Pete Thamel reported on X, formerly Twitter. Thamel also shared specifics of the buyout clause and bonus structure, which includes payments for bowl game appearances and finishes in the Associated Press Top 25 Poll.

Belichick, who led the New England Patriots to six Super Bowl titles, parted ways with the NFL team after a disappointing 4-13 season in 2023. Despite his storied career, he failed to secure another NFL head coaching position this offseason, leading to his surprising move to college football.

UNC’s general manager has dismissed concerns about Belichick’s commitment, stating his “focus is on North Carolina football, hiring staff members, and developing the team.” However, the timing of the NFL hiring cycle and the relatively low buyout after June 1, 2025, leave the door open for a potential return to the pros.

Belichick’s hiring marks his first foray into collegiate coaching after a 48-year NFL career. He inherits a Tar Heels program coming off a 6-7 season in 2024. While his contract suggests he will coach at UNC for at least the 2025 season, the possibility of an NFL return looms, especially if a desirable opportunity arises.

As the college football world watches Belichick’s next move, the Tar Heels hope his legendary coaching acumen can revive their program. Meanwhile, NFL teams with coaching vacancies may still view him as a potential candidate, provided they are willing to pay the buyout.