Bill Belichick’s tenure at UNC has hit snags due to distractions involving his girlfriend, Jordon Hudson. Despite this, there seems to be a potential exit strategy.
Belichick inked an agreement to helm the University of North Carolina’s football team for a five-year stretch, complete with a hefty $10 million buyout clause. A hidden detail in the 73-year-old’s UNC contract might enable the celebrated coach a seamless NFL comeback if he chooses to depart from college football amid personal and private turbulence. The noteworthy date is Sunday, June 1, when Belichick’s buyout figure plummeted $9 million, down to a mere $1 million.
Belichick tactfully negotiated a reduction in his buyout sum as of June 1 should any NFL squads show interest in acquiring his talents. Given the recent media storm Belichick has endured, however, it’s unlikely that any NFL teams will vie for his leadership presently.
Belichick’s foray into college ranks has been largely overshadowed by controversy linked to his companion, Hudson, who is notably 49 years younger than him. Hudson’s influence has become a central thread in the unfolding drama at North Carolina, with offseason buzz highlighting her growing sway over decisions.
The narrative reached a fever pitch in a ‘Sunday Morning’ interview on CBS, where Hudson controversially intervened to cut off questions about how they met, stating off-camera: “We’re not talking about this.”
Belichick and Hudson have been in a relationship for three years, according to reports, even though they only made their relationship public in June 2024. TMZ reported that Hudson was seen at the Patriots’ stadium during the 2022 and 2023 seasons supporting the former head coach, and she is rumored to be assisting Belichick with his business ventures while additionally being spotted at practices.
Belichick is now focusing on his new role as the head coach of UNC. In January, he signed a five-year contract worth $50 million to enter college football as the head coach of the Tar Heels.
When Belichick signed his contract, there was significant interest in the surprising inclusion of the clause. However, the former New England Patriots coach insisted he was focused on the task at hand at Chapel Hill.
“I am excited for the opportunity at UNC-Chapel Hill,” Belichick stated at the time. “I grew up around college football with my Dad and treasured those times. I have always wanted to coach in college, and now I look forward to building the football program at Chapel Hill.”
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During an introductory press conference with UNC, Belichick was also asked about a potential NFL return in the future, which he quickly dismissed: “I didn’t come here to leave.”
The first three years of Belichick’s contract at UNC are guaranteed as he steps in to replace former head coach Mack Brown. The UNC college football season kicks off with a game against TCU on Monday, Sept. 1.
