What Bill Belichick is telling those close to him as North Carolina exit rumors swirl

Bill Belichick and Michael Lombardi don’t intend on going anywhere. 

The Athletic’s Dianna Russini reported Saturday that the pair “has no plans to leave Chapel Hill” despite non-stop drama surrounding the North Carolina football program. 

Belichick reportedly “loves coaching at the college level” and “believes they’re building something meaningful at UNC.”

Lombardi, his general manager, “is fully on the same page,” per Russini. 

The latest news comes just days after Belichick’s days as a college coach appeared to be numbered. 

Earlier this week, 247 Sports reported that “potential exit strategy discussions” took place at the school and that there were “preliminary conversations” about firing the legendary football coach.

Belichick had also reportedly “discussed buyout options with North Carolina’s hierarchy,” just five games into his tenure as head coach of the Tar Heels. 

Chatter got loud enough that Belichick and UNC Athletics Director Bubba Cunningham released statements addressing the former’s future with the program. 

“Coach Belichick has the full support of the Department of Athletics and University,” Cunningham said.

“I’m fully committed to UNC Football and the program we’re building there,” Belichick said. 

After the avalanche of negative press, Belichick and his staff are trying to “find the leak” that’s telling reporters about the inside workings of the program.

The Tar Heels have been underwhelming on the field under Belichick through five games, winning just two games and taking losses to TCU, UCF and Clemson. 

They’ve been outscored 120-33 combined in those losses.

Underlying the dysfunction and poor play is Belichick’s 24-year-old girlfriend Jordon Hudson’s presence around the program.

Hudson was on the UNC sideline once again last Saturday, and at one point was seen engaging in a discussion with ACC commissioner Jim Phillips.