UNC football GM Michael Lombardi placed on paid administrative leave - WRAL

What the report says

WRAL.com reports that the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has put Michael Lombardi, the general manager of the UNC football program, on paid administrative leave, with the action taking effect immediately. The university has not publicly explained the reason. WRAL said On3 reported the announcement followed an unspecified human resources complaint, but UNC did not confirm details to WRAL.

According to WRAL, UNC vice chancellor Dean Stoyer described the matter as a personnel issue and said leadership, staff and student-athletes are barred from discussing it further. WRAL reported that it asked UNC and Carolina football whether the leave was tied to an investigation, how long it might last, and whether the program will appoint an interim general manager as football season approaches. The university referred WRAL back to its initial statement.

Lombardi was among head coach Bill Belichick’s first hires at UNC, WRAL noted, after the two worked together in NFL roles with Cleveland and New England. WRAL reported that Lombardi earned $1.5 million in 2025 based on a UNC System salary database, and that his son, Matt Lombardi, is the Tar Heels’ quarterbacks coach. Lombardi’s broader résumé includes more than three decades in NFL front offices, along with earlier college experience at UNLV.

The development adds another off-field question for UNC’s high-profile football transition under Belichick. WRAL reported that the Tar Heels are set to open their second fall practice under Belichick this week, with Belichick expected to speak to reporters afterward, while UNC trustees also have scheduled meetings.