What NFL team could land Bill Belichick if he leaves UNC for one last pro run?
Will an NFL franchise take a chance on Bill Belichick after his college football detour? (Getty Images)
Bill Belichick's surprising entry into the college football world with the North Carolina Tar Heels has sparked intense discussion across both NCAA and NFL circles. The legendary coach, who spent over two decades defining a dynasty with the New England Patriots, is now gearing up for his first season in Chapel Hill.
But while his presence has created waves in college football, there's an undeniable feeling that this isn't the final chapter of his coaching career. In fact, whispers of a possible return to the NFL are growing louder—with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers emerging as a front-runner for his potential landing spot.
Is UNC just a pit stop for Bill Belichick before jumping back into the NFL?
There's no denying the intrigue around Bill Belichick's leap to college football. With his buyout from UNC dropping to just $1 million, the financial barrier to exit is minimal.
Yet, questions remain about his ability to thrive in the fast-evolving, NIL-driven college football ecosystem. Adapting to the recruiting grind, transfer portal chaos, and managing Gen Z athletes may not suit Belichick's traditional, military-esque style.
Still, his presence brings instant credibility to the Tar Heels. His first year will be a telling one. If UNC performs well, Belichick might stick around to build something long-term.
But should the season falter, or if things feel misaligned, the temptation of returning to the NFL could prove irresistible.
Will Bill Belichick coach in the NFL again ⁉️ | Get Up
Among potential NFL suitors, one team stands out—the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. ProFootballTalk's Mike Florio has fueled speculation by pointing out that Belichick could already be eyeing the job. 'Even with all of the craziness that has happened of late, the Bucs can't be ruled out as a potential destination for Belichick.
Again, they hired Greg Schiano,' Florio wrote.
It's a valid point. The Bucs are no strangers to bold and unconventional coaching moves. Though Todd Bowles has led the team to three straight NFC South titles, the NFL is a volatile business. With Bowles in his early 60s and NFL franchises increasingly favoring younger head coaches, a shift could occur quicker than expected. Florio even noted that 'rumors were floated because it's a job that Belichick covets and is trying to speak into existence.
'
And with Tampa Bay boasting a talented roster, a proven game-day tactician like Belichick could be seen as the missing ingredient for a deep playoff run.
The truth is, no one—not even Belichick himself—can say with certainty what comes next. But with his UNC buyout now more manageable and the Buccaneers' head coaching future anything but locked in, the stars could align in 2025.
As Florio aptly put it, 'Let's not assume no one at the NFL level will want Belichick.' That assumption could soon be put to the test—possibly in Tampa Bay.
Also Read:
Aaron Rodgers contract details: Why the Steelers' one-year gamble could define their season and legacy
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