North Carolina Tar Heels running back Caleb Hood, 23, had an important conversation with head coach Bill Belichick on Wednesday regarding his football career. It was to tell him that he is contemplating to retire from the sport for good.
Belichick acknowledged the decision and UNC Football’s X account revealed the development. Hood’s quotes were also shared:
“After much thought, prayer and discussion with my family, I have decided to retire from football. My journey at UNC has been special and I appreciate my time here. I am excited to start the next chapter and will always take my memories of Carolina with me.
“I want to thank Coach Belichick, Coach Kitchens and Coach Means for giving me an opportunity, as well as all my other coaches and teammates throughout my years of football for the impact they’ve all had on my life!”
Thank You @calebhood05 🩵 https://t.co/sHiBYhsPSO pic.twitter.com/8isjhXWW6b
— Carolina Football (@UNCFootball) October 10, 2025
The running back featured in the season opener against TCU but has since struggled to find playing time. His injury history might be behind his decision to retire, so let’s take a look:
Caleb Hood’s Injury History
Throughout his time in North Carolina, Caleb Hood’s career has been significantly hampered by injuries. In 2022, the running back started four of the first seven games before suffering a season ending upper-body injury.
The following season, he found himself getting less playing time due to his injury troubles. He played six games in 2023 and just four in 2024.
Last season, he suffered a lower-body injury. His playing time was also hampered after the likes of Omarion Hampton emerged as standout featured backs with the program. After limited action in 2024 due to health issues, UNC opted to redshirt Hood.
Belichick appreciated Caleb Hood’s playing career following his decision to retire while acknowledging his injuries over the years.
“Caleb is a great person, a leader and an exemplary teammate,” the head coach’s statement read. “He has done everything we have asked him to do as a student-athlete both on and off the field and he has been a model representation of our program.
“He has battled through injuries the last couple years and worked hard this offseason to stay healthy and compete every day this season. He will always be a Tar Heel and I wish him nothing but the best moving forward.”
Hood ends his football career in the middle of his fifth year after rushing for 515 yards and three scores on 114 carries.
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