In a move that has captured the attention of the college football world, the University of North Carolina (UNC) has announced its coaching staff for the 2025 season under new head coach Bill Belichick. Belichick, renowned for his six Super Bowl championships with the New England Patriots, brings a wealth of experience to Chapel Hill.
Offensive Staff
- Freddie Kitchens, Offensive Coordinator/Tight Ends: Kitchens returns to UNC, where he previously served as tight ends coach and run game coordinator. He has held various NFL coaching positions, including head coach of the Cleveland Browns.
- Will Friend, Offensive Line: Friend brings extensive experience from his time coaching at the University of Alabama, where he contributed to multiple national championships.
- Matt Lombardi, Quarterbacks: Lombardi has a history of developing quarterbacks, having worked with several high-profile programs.
- Garrick McGee, Wide Receivers: McGee’s coaching career includes stints as an offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at both the collegiate and professional levels.
- Natrone Means, Running Backs: A former NFL running back, Means brings firsthand playing experience to his coaching role.
- Caleb Pickrell, Offensive Assistant: Pickrell’s role focuses on supporting the offensive staff, utilizing his analytical skills to enhance game planning.
Defensive Staff
- Steve Belichick, Defensive Coordinator/Linebackers: The son of head coach Bill Belichick, Steve has a distinguished NFL coaching background, including roles with the New England Patriots.
- Bob Diaco, Defensive Line: Diaco’s coaching resume features defensive coordinator positions at multiple universities and a national championship with the University of Notre Dame.
- Brian Belichick, Defensive Backs/Safeties: Brian has served as safeties coach for the New England Patriots, contributing to the team’s Super Bowl successes.
- Armond Hawkins, Cornerbacks: Hawkins brings a wealth of knowledge from his coaching tenure in both the NFL and collegiate ranks.
- Jamie Collins, Inside Linebackers: Collins, a former NFL linebacker, offers valuable insights into linebacker play and defensive strategy.
- Ty Nichols, Outside Linebackers: Nichols has coached linebackers at various levels, emphasizing pass-rush techniques and coverage skills.
This coaching staff represents a blend of NFL pedigree and collegiate expertise, aligning with Belichick’s vision to infuse professional-level strategies into UNC’s football program. The emphasis on a professional approach is evident, with plans to create a mini-NFL front office at UNC.
As the Tar Heels commence their spring practice season, expectations are high for a transformative year that honors the program’s rich history while embracing a bold new direction under Coach Belichick and his esteemed staff.
