Overview
- Michael Lombardi resigned effective Sept. 3, 2026, leaving his role Thursday after more than a month on paid administrative leave while UNC investigated a personnel complaint.
- The university reaffirmed that the Office of University Counsel is leading a confidential investigation and will consider appropriate corrective actions based on what it finds.
- Multiple outlets report the probe has broadened to question defensive coordinator Steve Belichick about possible drug use and to examine alleged sexual or romantic relationships between staff and student-athletes.
- Lombardi’s lawyer said he is cooperating, had not been told the specific allegations, and that Lombardi stepped down to allow the team to focus on the 2026 season.
- Lombardi was hired with Bill Belichick in December 2024, drew on decades of NFL front-office experience, and was one of college football’s highest-paid GMs at about $1.5 million a year, leaving UNC to reassign his responsibilities while the review continues.