North Carolina confirmed it is investigating allegations against football general manager Michael Lombardi that led to him being placed on paid administrative leave on Monday.
“As a result of concerns behind allegations that led to the personnel action regarding Michael Lombardi announced on July 27, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, through its Office of University Counsel, is in the process of investigating this matter,” the university told ESPN’s Pete Thamel.
“Because this involves confidential personnel issues, the University will not comment on the nature of the allegations or discuss personnel information.”
Tar Heels head coach Bill Belichick also broke his silence on the matter Thursday, with his longtime confidant joining him at the university in 2024.
“We’ve made a few adjustments but are working through the process,” Belichick said, per WRAL News.
UNC announced Monday that Lombardi had been placed on paid administrative leave and did not provide a reason for the move.
The decision came following human resources complaint filed by a former employee, per ESPN.
“As is standard procedure with personnel matters, leadership, staff, and student-athletes are prohibited from addressing this topic further,” said Dean Stoyer vice chancellor for communications and marketing.
Lombardi is reportedly also linked to an investigation from the College Sports Commission (CSC), with his actions “believed to be of interest,” per The Athletic.
The CSC investigations violations involving the Name, Image and Likeness space, which are facets that a general manager would be involved with as part of his duties.
That investigation plus this latest reveal seemingly opens the door for potential consequences against Lombardi.
Lombardi and Belichick became members of the Tar Heel community on Dec. 11, 2024, following their lengthy time together with the Patriots and Browns.
He is earning $1.5 million on a three-year deal that runs through 2028, per the university, and is the highest-paid general manager in the sport, according to USA Today.
North Carolina went 4-8 last year in the duo’s first year and the Tar Heels open the 2026 season in Ireland against TCU on Aug. 29.
