UNC GM Michael Lombardi resigns amid investigation reportedly examining questions about Steve Belichick, September 3, 2026

Michael Lombardi stepped down as North Carolina's general manager on Thursday, ending a tenure marked by aggressive roster-building and internal conflict. The resignation came after Lombardi had been on paid administrative leave since July 27, following a human resources complaint filed by a former UNC front office employee.

Lombardi's departure leaves unresolved the scope and findings of the investigation that prompted his leave. According to Yahoo College Football's reporting, investigators are reportedly asking questions about accusations of drug use by Steve Belichick, the head coach's son and a football program assistant, and about inappropriate relationships within the program. CBS Sports confirmed the investigation remains active and that Lombardi remains a subject of two concurrent inquiries, including a separate compliance review by the College Sports Commission, which enforces both NCAA and NIL rules.

In a brief statement, Lombardi said: "I want to thank Chancellor Roberts and Bill Belichick for the opportunity to serve as the GM of UNC Football. I have decided it's best for me to resign my position as GM to allow the team to focus on the '26 season." Per CBS Sports, Lombardi's lawyer, Tom Mars, stated on July 31 that Lombardi had not been told what he was being investigated for at that time. Mars also told the outlet that his client "welcomes the opportunity to clear his name, which has already been sullied by baseless statements and innuendo on social media."

Lombardi earned $1.5 million annually, making him the highest-paid general manager in college football according to CBS Sports reporting. His contract, which ran through the 2027 season, included a $3 million buyout as of 2024. Before joining North Carolina, Lombardi worked with head coach Bill Belichick at the New England Patriots from 2014 to 2016 and co-hosted an NFL podcast with Belichick from 2024 to 2025. His only college-level experience prior to UNC was a recruiting coordinator role at UNLV from 1981 to 1984.

UNC football opened its 2026 season with an upset victory over TCU, 15-10, in Week 0, and the team was on a bye following that game. The Tar Heels posted a 4-8 record last season and signed the No. 19 high school recruiting class nationally. UNC's next home contest comes September 12 against East Tennessee State.

The University of North Carolina stated it will continue its ongoing investigation and consider all appropriate corrective actions, per CBS Sports. The school's policy restricts team members from discussing the matter while the investigation proceeds.