CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — North Carolina has parted ways with special teams coordinator Mike Priefer, a decision confirmed by sources on Friday morning, following a challenging season for the team’s special units. The Tar Heels concluded the 2025 season with low rankings in special teams, finishing 12th in the ACC for punt returns, 14th for kick returns, and 11th in punting. Additionally, they ranked 11th in opponent kickoff returns and 10th in opponent punt returns.
The team’s struggles were notably highlighted during their home game against Duke. In that match, the Tar Heels witnessed a roughing the kicker penalty in the first half that allowed Duke to capitalize on the field position and score a touchdown. The game took a further downturn in the fourth quarter when UNC fell victim to a fake field goal, which led to Duke scoring a go-ahead touchdown. Earlier in the season, the Tar Heels had difficulties with onside kicks, notably failing one against Richmond and attempting one against Duke that did not travel the required ten yards. Additionally, during a game with Wake Forest, UNC faced challenges as well, having two field goals blocked and allowing a fourth-down conversion on a fake punt against N.C. State in their season finale.
Priefer’s firing coincides with the announcement of offensive coordinator Freddie Kitchens’ departure, with the university confirming both coaching changes later on the same day. “We want to thank Coach Kitchens and Coach Priefer for their commitment and many contributions to our program and student-athletes. We wish them both nothing but the best in their future endeavors,” said head coach Bill Belichick in a statement.
Priefer was brought on board to lead UNC’s special teams as part of Belichick’s inaugural coaching staff and brought extensive NFL experience, having begun his career in the league in 2002 with the Jacksonville Jaguars. His coaching journey included time spent with the New York Giants, Kansas City Chiefs, Denver Broncos, Minnesota Vikings, and Cleveland Browns, establishing him as a veteran in special teams coordination. He initially started coaching in 1994 at Navy after his playing career there before making various coaching stops at different colleges before entering the NFL.
With a final record of 4-8 in his first season under Belichick, North Carolina aims to improve as they move forward, seeking stronger performance from their special teams in the coming seasons. The changes in the coaching staff reflect the team’s commitment to enhancing their competitive edge and addressing past shortcomings. The future holds promise as UNC looks to rebuild and refocus ahead of the next season.