UNC GM Mike Lombardi reveals why Bill Belichick is inclined towards CFB in 2025

North Carolina Tar Heels general manager Mike Lombardi has shared his perspective on why he and Bill Belichick decided to work in college football. On Dec. 11, Belichick signed a five-year $50 million deal to become the new coach of the Tar Heels. He is currently recruiting players for his first season.

Lombardi appeared on "The Pat McAfee Show" on Thursday to discuss North Carolina's upcoming season. McAfee asked the general manager why this was the best time for him and Belichick to be in college football at this stage of their life. Lombardi said that their experience in the NFL and the current structure of college football makes it easier for them to create the team they want.

"Because we've been in pro football. We've heard no from players before. We've known that players go for money in certain places. We know that players get lured, but the difference between college football and pro football is there's really only two avenues. There's the draft and free agency. In college football, it's unlimited," Lombardi said (Timestamp: 1:34:45).

He added that the ability to recruit players from high school and the transfer portal makes it easier for them to structure their roster.

"There's more chances to improve your roster" - Michael Lombardi compares the recruiting process in college football to the NFL

NIL money has changed college football as some players determine who they want to play for based on financial opportunities. Mike Lombardi and Bill Belichick are used to negotiating with players in the NFL, which helped their approach to how they've signed talent in college football.

During his conversation with McAfee, the Tar Heel general manager said he is okay with athletes turning down an offer to join the team because he can find another player willing to join UNC.

"I've heard no more than I've heard yes, but I embrace no because I know there is somebody else out there, you know?" Lombardi said (Timestamp: 1:35:27). "Well, we're gonna go to this school. Okay great. We'll just sign this receiver as opposed to you. I don't take it personally. I think to me that's what in pro football. You get lied to, and in high school football recruiting, with the agents that are doing it now, they lie to you. I'm used to being lied to."

"I'm immune to it, but I think to me there's more chances to improve your roster here than it was in pro football," he added.

North Carolina may also have an advantage in recruiting athletes because of Belichick and Lombardi's connections with agents from their NFL careers. The former New England Patriots coach admitted on the "Pat McAfee Show" that players and agents had contacted him about joining the Tar Heels.

Since Belichick joined, the team has made several key acquisitions, including quarterback Bryce Baker. During the offseason, North Carolina will continue monitoring the transfer portal to complete its roster.