North Carolina places football GM Michael Lombardi on paid administrative leave
North Carolina has announced that general manager Michael Lombardi has been placed on paid administrative leave. Lombardi, a long-time associate of coach Bill Belichick, arrived at North Carolina with Belichick and was tasked with building the team’s roster. The university did not provide specific details regarding the decision, stating that it would not offer further public comment on the personnel matter.
The school’s statement indicated that, in line with standard procedures for personnel matters, leadership, staff, and student-athletes are prohibited from discussing the topic further. The statement also noted that the decision has no reflection on the merits of the situation.
Details of the Leave
While the exact reasons for Lombardi’s administrative leave remain undisclosed, reports suggest the action stems from a human resources complaint. According to one report, a former UNC front office employee filed the complaint, leading to a pending investigation. The university’s handbook states that administrative leave should not exceed 30 days. Furthermore, the handbook indicates that employees may be placed on administrative leave by their supervisor during an investigation into unsatisfactory job performance or unacceptable personal conduct.
Lombardi, who previously served as an NFL executive with three decades of experience, declined to comment when contacted. His annual salary of $1.5 million made him the highest-paid general manager in college football upon his arrival at North Carolina.
Impact on Preseason Preparations
The decision to place Lombardi on leave comes as North Carolina is preparing to intensify its preseason practice schedule later this week. The team’s season opener against TCU in Ireland is scheduled for August 29, which is just over a month away. This timing places the program in a period of significant preparation without its general manager.
Belichick, a six-time Super Bowl champion with New England, was a surprising hire for North Carolina in December 2024 after the university dismissed Mack Brown. Belichick, who is 74, had no prior experience in college football. However, with no opportunities for another NFL position, he took on the role of coaching the Tar Heels under a three-year guaranteed contract, reportedly earning $10 million annually.
Lombardi’s Role and Team Performance
Lombardi had been a prominent figure within the North Carolina football program. He was previously a show host on SiriusXM and frequently appeared on “The Pat McAfee Show.” Upon joining North Carolina, he publicly stated the goal was to transform the university’s football program into the “33rd NFL team.”
Expectations were high in Chapel Hill, N.C., for Belichick’s inaugural season. His debut was a nationally televised event, drawing notable alumni such as Michael Jordan and Mia Hamm back to their alma mater. The initial enthusiasm was evident when North Carolina scored a touchdown on its opening drive.
However, the team ultimately lost that game 48-14. The Tar Heels began the season with five consecutive losses against Power 4 opponents, with a roster that was reportedly not adequately constructed to compete in the ACC. North Carolina concluded the year with a 4-8 record, tying for 13th in the ACC conference.
Lombardi had previously worked with Belichick as an assistant on the coaching staff for the New England Patriots from 2014-2016 before rejoining him at North Carolina in 2025.
Source: nytimes.com
