Michael Lombardi Placed on Administrative Leave at UNC
The University of North Carolina has confirmed that Michael Lombardi, the general manager of its football program, is now on paid administrative leave. The announcement came Monday from Vice Chancellor Dean Stoyer.
In the statement, it was noted, “Michael Lombardi has been placed on paid administrative leave, effective immediately.” It was also mentioned that, as per standard procedure, no one associated with the university—be it coaches, staff, or athletes—should discuss the situation further, regardless of any opinions on its merits.
No specific reason for this decision was disclosed by Stoyer.
Lombardi was brought into the program by head coach Bill Belichick, who took the reins in December 2024. He was the first hire Belichick made, having previously worked together with Lombardi on teams like the Browns and Patriots. Throughout his extensive NFL career, which spans over three decades, Lombardi has held positions with various teams, including the 49ers, Eagles, Raiders, and Broncos. Notably, he has also been part of three Super Bowl-winning teams. Interestingly, his only prior college experience was as UNLV’s recruiting coordinator back in the early 1980s.
According to USA Today’s database, Lombardi is the highest-paid general manager in college football, earning an annual salary of $1.5 million on a contract that runs until mid-January 2028.
“Working with Coach Belichick has always been one of the most rewarding times of my life,” Lombardi had expressed at the time of his hiring. “It’s a dream come true to be reunited here. Chapel Hill is a magical place, and the university is one of the best in the country.”
Belichick, during Lombardi’s hiring, praised him, saying, “Michael knows how to develop champions and brings quality experience to the UNC program. We are excited to be reunited with Michael. We will rely on his expertise in evaluating and acquiring talent for the Tar Heel program.”
Despite Lombardi’s efforts, the Tar Heels finished the 2025 season, the first under Belichick, with a disappointing 4-8 record.
