Michael Lombardi leaves North Carolina football GM role, university's internal probe continues

Michael Lombardi will no longer be part of the program. The longtime NFL executive stepped down Thursday from his most recent role as the college programs general manager, UNC announced Thursday.

Lombardis decision comes more than a month after the university placed him on amid an internal investigation. Even with Lombardis resignation, the probe launched by UNCs Office of University Counsel will proceed, the school confirmed.

Lombardi arrived at Chapel Hill in 2025, ahead of Bill Belichicks first season, and was widely considered one of the seven-time Super Bowl-winning coachs most trusted advisors within the football program.

"Effective September 3, 2026, Michael Lombardi has resigned from his position as General Manager of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hills football program," the university said Thursday in a press release sent to Fox News Digital.

"The University will continue its ongoing investigation and will consider all appropriate corrective actions responsive to the information it learns."

The internal investigation into Lombardi became public in late July. At the time, the Office of University Counsel cited unspecified allegations and said it would not comment on their nature.

"Because this involves confidential personnel issues, the University will not comment on the nature of the allegations or discuss personnel Information," a statement issued on July 28 read.

After North Carolina named Lombardi general manager, he became college footballs highest-paid football operations executive, earning an annual salary of $1.5 million. Lombardi was among Belichicks first hires after he accepted the job at UNC.

ZERO BS. JUST DAKICH. TAKE THE DON'T @ ME PODCAST ON THE ROAD. DOWNLOAD NOW!

Belichick reacted to Lombardi being placed on administrative leave on July 30.

"Well, were working through some things," Belichick told reporters as the Tar Heels opened preseason camp. "Were at a particular time of year now where there are some things in play and some things that arent in play that wont happen until later in the calendar year. Again, were taking it day-to-day, and were doing things that are on Day 1. … Weve made a few adjustments, but were working through the process."

Belichicks second season at North Carolina got off to a promising start when the in Ireland last Saturday. UNC finished Belichicks debut season with a 4-8 record.