Bill Belichick makes a swift return to television screens. The coaching icon just wrapped up a challenging first season with the University of North Carolina. Now, ESPN confirms his new role. The 73-year-old will join the broadcast team for the College Football Playoff national championship game.
Belichick's Dual Role at ESPN and North Carolina
The network announced this move recently. Belichick will contribute to the ACC Network's coverage of the title clash. This game takes place at Hard Rock Stadium in South Florida. It features the Indiana Hoosiers against the University of Miami Hurricanes. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m.
This television appearance marks a notable comeback for Belichick. He continues serving as head coach of the Tar Heels in Chapel Hill. ESPN stated he will pair with former Miami and Georgia head coach Mark Richt during the broadcast.
A Tough Season Precedes the TV Return
This development follows a rough period for North Carolina football. The team concluded the 2025 season with a disappointing 4–8 record. That performance meant missing both a bowl game and the expanded College Football Playoff.
Belichick took the North Carolina job in 2025. It represented his first college coaching position after departing the New England Patriots following the 2024 NFL season. Before arriving in Chapel Hill, he built a television presence. He appeared on "Monday Night Football's ManningCast" with Peyton and Eli Manning. Regular spots on The Pat McAfee Show also featured him.
Now, he skillfully blends both worlds. He remains committed to rebuilding the North Carolina program. Simultaneously, he steps back into the media spotlight. ESPN's announcement highlighted this move. It brings "one of football's greatest minds" back to the broadcast booth.
Belichick's Storied Career and Current Focus
Belichick holds a unique place in NFL history. He is the only head coach to win six Super Bowls with a single team, the New England Patriots. He also secured two more Super Bowl victories as a defensive coordinator for the New York Giants.
Despite his return to television, recruiting efforts continue unabated. One significant recent acquisition involves quarterback Billy Edwards Jr. ESPN's Pete Thamel reported this development. Edwards chose North Carolina after receiving a medical redshirt. This grants him an additional year of college eligibility.
Billy Edwards Jr., a Virginia native, transferred to Wisconsin in August 2025. He previously played at Maryland. A knee injury later ended his season prematurely. Now, he will compete with Gio Lopez for the starting quarterback position at North Carolina. He will work under Belichick and new offensive coordinator Bobby Petrino, another experienced NFL coach.
Rebuilding the Tar Heels Program
This addition matters greatly for a struggling North Carolina squad. The Tar Heels managed victories over only two Power Four teams during the 2025 season. They defeated Syracuse and Stanford.
Off-field attention has also surrounded Belichick. Media scrutiny focused heavily on his relationship with Jordon Hudson. Despite this external noise, program sources indicate Belichick stays intensely focused. His priorities remain recruiting and player development.
North Carolina will next showcase its team on April 12. The spring game at Kenan Stadium offers fans their first glimpse of the new roster.
