Could Bill Belichick’s tenure at UNC be very brief?

According to NFL Media’s Tom Pelissero, several NFL teams, including the Las Vegas Raiders, have reached out to the iconic coach who just joined the University of North Carolina recently. Tom Brady, now part-owner of the Raiders and Belichick’s former quarterback, is said to be exploring his interest in a potential NFL return, as per the report.

Belichick separated from the Patriots after a 24-year run following the 2023 season. Last year, he interviewed multiple times with the Atlanta Falcons, who were seeking a new head coach, but they eventually chose Raheem Morris. Throughout 2024, Belichick engaged in various media projects while still staying connected to football in other ways.

The Raiders dismissed coach Antonio Pierce on Tuesday after a disappointing 4-13 season in his first full year. He had a 5-4 record as the interim coach in 2023 after taking over for Josh McDaniels, who was let go following a tough loss on Monday night against Detroit.

Additionally, five more teams are currently seeking a head coach: the Chicago Bears, Jacksonville Jaguars, New Orleans Saints, New England Patriots, and New York Jets. Belichick, who briefly served as an interim head coach for the Jets—without ever actually coaching a game—has also expressed criticism toward an organization that has historically struggled against the Patriots.

It remains uncertain which other team or teams may be in pursuit of him.

Belichick was announced as the head coach of the Tar Heels on December 11. Despite having no prior experience at the college level, he has begun assembling his coaching staff. His five-year contract has a $10 million buyout clause if he decides to leave before June 1.

“I had great moments in the NFL, but this is truly a dream come true,” Belichick stated during his introductory press conference in Chapel Hill on December 12.

When asked about the chance of returning to the NFL if conditions changed, Belichick responded, “I didn’t come here to leave.”

The Raiders have yet to respond to YSL News Sports regarding their coaching search.

At 72, Belichick has secured a record six Lombardi Trophies with New England and added two more as the defensive coordinator for the New York Giants during 1986 and 1990. He holds 333 wins as an NFL head coach, ranking second all-time behind Hall of Famer Don Shula, who has 347 victories.

***