The University of North Carolina has placed general manager Michael Lombardi on administrative leave amid an ongoing investigation, marking a fresh setback for head coach Bill Belichick as he begins his second season in charge. The move adds to a turbulent start to the campaign, with the decision reportedly made by the university itself rather than the athletic department, though no reason has yet been disclosed.

Lombardi's suspension comes just as the team prepares to begin practice for the new season, leaving his role and the wider programme in limbo. No further details have been released about the nature of the investigation or how long Lombardi is expected to remain sidelined, and neither the university nor Belichick has publicly commented on the matter.