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The most decorated head coach in NFL history, 72 year-old Bill Belichick signed a five-year deal with the North Carolina Tarheels Wednesday in what sent shockwaves through college football.
According to The Athletic the deal was for $50 million spread out over five years. The details of the contract were not otherwise made public.
“I am excited for the opportunity at UNC-Chapel Hill.” Belichick said in a statement. “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.”
Belichick’s father was also an assistant coach for UNC decades ago, so he’s always had a connection to the school.
News of Belichick’s interview with UNC almost a week ago spread like wildfire and brought about a multitude of reactions throughout the football world, many of which were not favorable. Publications have been wrought with speculation all week regarding the interview.
Just last NFL offseason, Belichick was being interviewed for the head coaching position for the Atlanta Falcons. After that fell through, he was working as an analyst.
While Mack Brown is currently the most decorated Tar Heels coach in history, he’s the one being replaced. Brown was with his second stint in North Carolina. He’s also 73 years-old. They obviously aren’t going to be sued for ageism anytime in the near future.
Given that Belichick will be 77 years-old at the end of his contract, this will almost certainly be his last major endeavor into coaching.
The Tar Heels haven’t won a championship since 1980 with coach Dick Crum. Obviously Belichick hopes to bring the school back to its former glory days.
