Belichick, son of Tar Heels head coach and former New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick, will resign as the team's defensive coordinator, ESPN reported on Thursday, Sept. 17. His resignation will take effect on Tuesday, Oct. 27, after his current medical leave ends.
UNC didn't publicly identify the specific actions that led to the resignation.
"These actions were isolated in scope and not a systemic failure," the school said in a statement. "All necessary corrective actions are now underway and will be overseen by Carolina Athletics and the Office of University Counsel. With these actions, the university considers the investigation to be resolved."
Outside investigators had questioned people close to the program about whether Steve Belichick used drugs while working, WRAL News reported. The investigation also reportedly looked into whether the 39-year-old had given drugs to at least one player.
The resignation comes two weeks after UNC general manager Michael Lombardi left the program. Lombardi, a longtime associate of Bill Belichick and former NFL executive, was put on administrative leave while an investigation into his conduct was underway before he resigned on Thursday, Sept. 3.
In 2025, Steve Belichick joined his father's staff at UNC as defensive coordinator after serving in the same role at the University of Washington in 2024. He previously spent 12 seasons with the Patriots from 2012 through 2023, beginning as a defensive assistant before coaching safeties, defensive backs, outside linebackers, and linebackers.
Steve Belichick was part of three Super Bowl championship teams during his time in New England. He also was the Pats' defensive play caller during his final four seasons with the franchise.
UNC also announced that freshman wide receiver Keeyun Chapman was suspended indefinitely following a separate incident on the night of Tuesday, Sept. 15.
"Chapman's suspension, like the actions resulting from the investigation, reflect the university's commitment to accountability and the well-being of its student-athletes," UNC said.
The Alabama native was arrested during a traffic stop and faces a charge of carrying a concealed handgun, according to ESPN. Fellow freshman wideout C.J. Sadler was also given his third speeding citation in two months in the incident, and police found about 15 grams of marijuana in their vehicle.
Sadler is listed as "out" in the availability report before UNC's next game at Clemson on Saturday, Sept. 19.
Click here to follow Daily Voice and receive free news updates.
