Legendary NFL coach Bill Belichick has shifted gears, diving into college football recruiting as the new head coach at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Once celebrated for his strategic expertise with the New England Patriots, Belichick is now impressing on the recruiting trail.
Belichick, 72, concluded his college playing days at Wesleyan in 1974 before heading straight to the NFL. His professional journey began as a special assistant for the Baltimore Colts, followed by roles with the Lions, Broncos, Giants, Browns, and Patriots. Throughout his entire career, he never returned to the college ranks.
He has successfully brought in 19 new transfers while losing only 17, a noteworthy feat. Looking ahead to 2025, UNC’s roster is shaping up well despite holding the 11th spot in the ACC and ranking 51st nationally for their recruiting class.
Bill Belichick Embraces Recruiting Role, Shakes Up UNC Football
Belichick is navigating college football recruiting for the first time in his remarkable 49-year coaching career. Having never recruited players before, it’s unusual to see him trying to connect with 16——to 18-year-old prospects—but surprisingly, his dap game is impressive.
Belichick accepted the role as UNC’s 35th head football coach in December. While his coaching ability is unquestionable — proven by six Super Bowl victories with New England — the recruiting aspect is new to him.
UNC is adopting a professional-style approach to help Belichick focus on coaching. Michael Lombardi, a trusted associate of Belichick, will serve as the Tar Heels’ General Manager, easing the recruiting burden. However, recruiting isn’t entirely off Belichick’s plate. He must still engage with young athletes and convince them to commit to UNC.
Belichick and his younger girlfriend attended UNC’s basketball game against Duke, where he sported a sharp suit—signaling that this was strictly business. That night, Belichick personally greeted every high school recruit and their families, leaving a strong impression.
Bill Belichick explained how college 🏈 is now using a pro model for roster management.
The GM handles “the contracts, the salaries.”
He said it’s basically the same process as the NFL, except free agency is annual.
Another example of how high level college 🏈 is a pro sport. pic.twitter.com/0KNtg4cP8B
— Mit Winter (@WinterSportsLaw) March 8, 2025
His efforts are already paying off. Top defensive ends are showing interest in UNC, including five-star Carter Meadows from Gonzaga in Washington, D.C. Ranked No. 6 nationally regardless of position, Meadows holds a 3.95 GPA and is weighing UNC alongside programs like Michigan, Ohio State, and Penn State.
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Additionally, Luke Wafle, the No. 1 player in New Jersey and the nation’s 19th-ranked prospect, is considering UNC. Schools like Oklahoma, Texas, and Tennessee are also in the mix, but Belichick’s early recruiting push is making waves.
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