Bill Belichick has concluded his first season at Chapel Hill with significant changes to his coaching staff. In a move that underscores the challenges of college football, he has parted ways with offensive coordinator Freddie Kitchens and special-teams coordinator Mike Priefer.
Kitchens, who previously served as the head coach of the Cleveland Browns in 2019 and filled in as the interim coach for the Tar Heels in 2024, had remained on Belichick’s staff since his hiring last year. Priefer, a seasoned NFL coach with over two decades of experience, was also brought to North Carolina by Belichick after a brief hiatus from football. Notably, Priefer was part of Kitchens’ coaching team during their time in Cleveland.
As Belichick prepares for a second season at UNC, he faces the critical task of recruiting new coordinators to reshape the team’s strategy. The challenges of the past season hint that if significant improvements are not seen, his tenure might not extend beyond the next year.
While coaching plays a vital role in a team’s success, the emphasis at the college level often shifts to the caliber of players available. The Tar Heels have struggled with talent depth in 2025, and both coaches and recruits will need to unify efforts to enhance the roster for a more competitive 2026 season. The upcoming year will be crucial for rebuilding the program and setting a path toward revival.