Bill Belichick bans New England Patriots scouts from UNC practice and games, per report
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North Carolina head coach Bill Belichick is not allowing scouts from the New England Patriots to be present at UNC practices or games.
That’s according to a report on Thursday from TarHeel247, citing a source “very close to the situation.” Per that source, the decision is due to Belichick feeling he’s been mistreated by the Patriots organization since his departure after the 2023 NFL season.
The source also told TarHeel247 that North Carolina will still send film of its players to the Pats and will facilitate pre-draft interviews as well. Belichick’s policy only limits Patriots scouts from entering Carolina facilities.
Belichick had a legendary run as the Patriots’ head coach, but things have turned sour in the wake of his departure in 2023. Multiple reports over the last couple of years have pointed to a significant rift between Belichick and Patriots owner Robert Kraft. Notably, Belichick published a book earlier this year called ‘The Art of Winning’ that does not mention Kraft by name.
The Belichick era in Chapel Hill is off to a rocky start. Following a drama-filled offseason, the Tar Heels suffered an embarrassing home loss to TCU on Monday night in Week 1.
Carolina will look to get back on track on Saturday against Charlotte. The Tar Heels are favored by 13.5-points in that game, according to the latest college football odds.
Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. ET on Saturday night.
Spenser is a news editor for Saturday Down South and covers college football across all Saturday Football brands.
