NFL legend Belichick makes his return to the game in a college role

Legendary American football coach Bill Belichick has returned to the game after a year away, but not as an NFL coach.

The 72-year-old, who led the New England Patriots to a record six Super Bowl victories, has been named the head coach of the University of North Carolina’s football team.

After ending his 24-year tenure with the Patriots last season, Belichick interviewed for a role with the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons but was not offered a position. Instead, he took on several broadcasting roles before signing a three-year, $30 million deal with the Tar Heels.

Belichick’s father, Steve Belichick, served as an assistant coach at the University of North Carolina from 1953 to 1955. Bill now takes over a Tar Heels program that has not won a conference title since 1980.

In a statement released by North Carolina, Belichick expressed his excitement, saying, “I am excited for the opportunity. I grew up around college football with my dad and treasured those times. I have always wanted to coach in college, and now I look forward to building the football program in Chapel Hill.”