"Old A** Coaches’": Keyshawn Johnson claims Bill Belichick must hire ‘Black Young Coaches’ to be successful at UNC

Former USC Trojans wide receiver Keyshawn Johnson has emphasized the importance of hiring young Black coaches as Bill Belichick begins his new role as head coach of the University of North Carolina. Speaking on Tuesday's episode of "All Facts No Brakes," Johnson shared his thoughts on Belichick's unexpected move to college football.

The eight-time Super Bowl champion, known for his legendary NFL coaching career, was officially introduced as the Tar Heels’ head coach on Dec. 11. Belichick signed a five-year, $50 million deal, a bold shift from his decades in the NFL.

On a different note, Johnson highlighted Belichick’s need to build a coaching staff that can connect with players and their families, particularly emphasizing the value of hiring young Black coaches.

“His biggest challenge to me is going to be relating and recruiting and understanding how the recruiting game goes, and for him to hire the right people and his staff,” Johnson said (Timestamp: 13:15).

According to Johnson, Belichick needs to hire black young coaches who can connect with parents and assure them their kids will be safe and cared for at UNC.

Johnson also cautioned against relying on older, NFL-style coaching approaches.

“He has to be able to hire you can't go up in there with them, all them old a** coaches from the NFL. That ain't going to work. You gotta get you some young go-getters that resonate.”

Despite his concerns, Johnson has confidence in Belichick’s ability to succeed at UNC.

“I was surprised. I was surprised,” he said. “I felt he was going to be an NFL coach because there were going to be some jobs available, but I do think he'll do a tremendous job in college football.”

Why is Bill Belichick widely celebrated as one of the greatest head coaches in football history?

Former New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick - Source: Imagn

Renowned for his exceptional career, Bill Belichick holds several records, including the most Super Bowl victories by a head coach, having achieved six with the New England Patriots.

Belichick began his coaching journey in 1975. His career path includes stints with multiple teams: the Patriots as assistant head coach and defensive backs coach in 1996, the New York Jets as assistant head coach and defensive coordinator from 1997 to 1999, and his iconic run as head coach of the Patriots from 2000 to 2023. In 2025, he will embark on a new chapter as the head coach of the University of North Carolina.

Belichick’s overall coaching record:

• NFL: 333–178
• NFL Playoffs: 31–13

Belichick’s magical NFL records:

• Most Super Bowl wins: 8 (including two as an assistant coach)
• Most Super Bowl wins as a head coach: 6
• Most Super Bowl appearances: 12
• Most Super Bowl appearances as a head coach: 9
• Most playoff wins as a head coach: 31

Will Bill Belichick’s ability to adapt set him apart as a true icon of the game? Only time will tell.