What happened: Lombardi’s resignation took effect Sept. 3 after 38 days on paid administrative leave. ESPN’s Pete Thamel linked the personnel action to a human-resources complaint filed by a former football front-office employee.
Why it matters: The departure removes a top roster architect as the 2026 season begins. Lombardi was Bill Belichick’s first key hire at North Carolina after working with him in Cleveland and New England.
By the numbers: Lombardi joined the program in December 2024 and spent 38 days on paid leave before resigning.
What to watch: North Carolina must determine who will oversee roster management and recruiting.