UNC GM Michael Lombardi Resigns As School Investigation Continues

North Carolina football general manager Michael Lombardi resigned on Thursday, just over a month after being placed on paid administrative leave on July 27. The university had initiated an investigation into a personnel complaint against Lombardi, who was the highest-paid GM in college football with a $1.5 million salary.

In his resignation statement, Lombardi cited the need for the team to focus on the 2026 season. He expressed gratitude to coach Bill Belichick and UNC chancellor Lee Roberts. The university announced it would continue its investigation and consider appropriate corrective actions based on its findings.

The investigation is also looking into allegations surrounding Bill Belichick's son, defensive coordinator Steve Belichick, as well as a potential sexual relationship between a recruiting staff member and a player. UNC is questioning individuals about potential drug use by Steve Belichick and a member of the recruiting staff. The university's probe also includes inquiries about possible sexual relationships between assistant coaches and recruiting staff.

Lombardi's three-year contract, running through the 2027 season, had drawn attention before the 2025 season due to a trip to Saudi Arabia, which UNC claimed was at the request of a college football fan interested in supporting Belichick. The Tar Heels defeated TCU 15-10 in the Week 0 Aer Lingus College Football Classic held in Dublin, Ireland.

UNC's opener this season against FCS school East Tennessee State is scheduled for September 12.