North Carolina hires Bill Belichick

The University of North Carolina has hired former New England Patriots coach and six-time Super Bowl champion Bill Belichick as its next football head coach.

The university confirmed the hiring with a post on X early Wednesday night.

The announcement was posted to GoHeels.com before 8 p.m. Wednesday.

Bill Belichick, North Carolina head coach

I am excited for the opportunity at UNC-Chapel Hill. I grew up around college football with my Dad and treasured those times. I have always wanted to coach in college and now I look forward to building the football program in Chapel Hill

Lee H. Roberts, North Carolina chancellor

This is an exciting day for Carolina football and our University

Bill Belichick, former Patriots head coach

If I was in a college program, the college program would be a pipeline to the NFL for the players that had the ability to play in the NFL

ESPN.com news services

North Carolina officials said the sides agreed to a five-year deal, which was approved by the board of trustees during an emergency meeting Thursday.

Bubba Cunningham, North Carolina athletic director

At Carolina, we believe in providing championship opportunities and the best experience possible for our student-athletes, and Coach Belichick shares that commitment.

Bill Belichick, North Carolina head coach

It just never really worked out. Had some good years in the NFL, so that was OK.