When Bill Belichick took over as North Carolina head coach, Michael Lombardi was his first hire. He took over as the program’s general manager to take a key role with roster construction, and his full contract details – including his salary and buyout – were revealed Tuesday. Lombardi signed his contract July 31, though it […]
When Bill Belichick took over as North Carolina head coach, Michael Lombardi was his first hire. He took over as the program’s general manager to take a key role with roster construction, and his full contract details – including his salary and buyout – were revealed Tuesday.
Lombardi signed his contract July 31, though it officially took effect Dec. 14, 2024. It’s a three-year deal, which is in line with the guaranteed portion of Belichick’s contract signed upon his hiring. Belichick’s agreement is for five years total, but the last two years are not guaranteed.
Lombardi will receive a $1.5 million annual base salary under his contract and is eligible for bonuses. If North Carolina makes a non-College Football Playoff bowl game, he is eligible for a bonus equal to one month salary. If the Tar Heels play in a “non-CFP Tier 1/Elite bowl game,” he will get a bonus equal to 1.5 months salary.
A College Football Playoff or ACC Championship berth would net Lombardi a bonus equal to two months salary. He can also receive that bonus if North Carolina finishes the season ranked in the Top 25 of “an NCAA recognized poll” and if the program wins a national championship. If UNC’s APR is equal to or greater than 975, he would get a $2,500 bonus.
If Lombardi voluntarily leaves North Carolina on or before Jan. 15, 2026, he would owe a buyout of 100% of his total base salary for the remainder of the term. That figure drops to 50% of his remaining salary after Jan. 15, 2026.
Excitement building for Bill Belichick’s UNC debut
Michael Lombardi and Bill Belichick previously worked together in the NFL with the Cleveland Browns and New England Patriots. A former NFL GM, Lombardi has three Super Bowl rings – one as a scout with the San Francisco 49ers and two with the New England Patriots as an assistant to the coaching staff.
Prior to his arrival in Chapel Hill, Lombardi worked in media. He hosted a sports betting program for SiriusXM and a daily show for VSiN. He also contributed to The Pat McAfee Show.
Belichick is currently going through his first training camp at North Carolina, and the season opener is set for Sept. 1 in primetime against TCU. Anticipation is building for the six-time Super Bowl champion head coach’s debut at the college level, and ticket prices are soaring. ESPN also sees “potential” for boosted TV ratings similar to when Deion Sanders took over at Colorado in 2023.
Category: General Sports
