Overview
- Belichick said there is “zero truth” to reports he sought a buyout and emphasized he is focused on building the program after a 2-3 start.
- UNC and athletic director Bubba Cunningham issued joint statements last week reaffirming mutual commitment following a surge of turmoil reports.
- Cornerbacks coach Armond Hawkins remains suspended as the school investigates impermissible benefits, adding to off-field scrutiny.
- Industry reporting points to likely assistant changes being evaluated, with offensive coordinator Freddie Kitchens drawing the most heat, though no moves are official.
- Belichick was seen recruiting during the bye and said UNC has about 40 high school commitments, as ESPN’s Pete Thamel framed the moment as an inflection point that could set up an end-of-season crossroads.