UNC is under pressure to sever ties with Bill Belichick as the famed NFL coach’s relationship with Jordon Hudson continues to stir controversy. Ever since Hudson interrupted a CBS News reporter asking about her initial meeting with Belichick, their contentious romance has been constantly scrutinized.
The situation escalated when Hudson went on an unusual social media rant, leaking a private email that exposed Belichick’s worries about the negative press surrounding his book. Subsequent weeks have seen a flurry of reports suggesting UNC officials are worried about Hudson’s influence over Belichick and the Tar Heels’ football program.
Both fans and commentators think Hudson has become a distraction after she was seen at a UNC practice with Belichick. Rumors circulated that the former cheerleader was barred from future training sessions, but these were quickly dismissed.
Other sources reported that North Carolina had to cancel an appearance on HBO’s ‘Hard Knocks’ after Hudson demanded creative control and ownership of the docuseries.
As the media frenzy around UNC persists – last month, journalist Pablo S. Torre threatened legal action against the University for not complying with public records requests – Tar Heels supporters are seemingly starting to turn against Belichick.
A “longtime UNC fan” reportedly expressed strong dissatisfaction with the school’s decision to continue supporting Belichick, as revealed in an email obtained by The Athletic‘s Brendan Marks.
“I am a longtime UNC fan and cannot believe you are stuck with a coach who is clearly being run by a woman who is young enough to be his granddaughter dominating football practice and interviews,” the email stated.
“It’s ridiculous, won’t end well, and makes UNC look foolish.”
Torre reported that within the North Carolina football staff, there’s growing concern about Hudson’s influence on the team and its reputation, with general manager Mike Lombardi among those worried.
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“What if I told you that [Belichick’s] inner circle of actual coaches on staff, including a certain Mike Lombardi, is deeply concerned about Jordon Hudson and her presence in the building?” Torre mentioned during an appearance on Bill Simmons’ podcast.
Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk pointed out that UNC risks alienating Belichick if they decide to restrict Hudson’s behind-the-scenes involvement, potentially leading to the 73 year old coach activating his buyout clause and leaving Chapel Hill.
“What will Belichick do if/when the school refuses to let her resume her non-employed employment?” Florio questioned. “If that happens, North Carolina will have to balance the possibility of losing Belichick with the reality that plenty of fans and supporters are dismayed by what has been happening.”
