Report: Bill Belichick finalizes contract with UNC

By Chris Marler

In case you missed it, the greatest NFL coach to ever walk the sidelines has made it official that he’ll be coaching at North Carolina. 

Belichick was introduced as North Carolina’s new head coach on December 13th. However, as we reported, the actual contract was never signed. 

That changed on Thursday, when the university released the official details of the contract, which showed Belichick’s signature. There was some speculation that Belichick may not actually take over in Chapel Hill, even after the introductory press conference. That was in large part due to an odd buyout in his contract that was only $1 million, if he were to leave after July 1st. 

That clause effectively left the door open for an NFL team to pursue him after the season ended. It should be noted that the buyout is still included in his signed contract. However, all reports indicate he will be the head coach on Aug. 30, when UNC hosts TCU. 

The contract spans five years at a base salary of $10 million per year, with an additional $3.5 million in potential performance bonuses. It also includes a three-year guarantee. Belichick will turn 73 later this year.