Bill Belichick might not make it to Week 1 as UNC's coach because of his young girlfriend Jordon Hudson

When Bill Belichick accepted the head coaching job at the University of North Carolina in January 2025, the move shocked the football world.

After a legendary career with the New England Patriots, many expected Belichick to retire or return to the NFL. Instead, he signed a five-year, $50 million deal to lead the Tar Heels. Just months into his new role, however, controversy off the field is raising doubts about whether Belichick will ever coach a single game for UNC.

At the center of the scrutiny is Belichick's relationship with 24-year-old Jordon Hudson, who is reportedly advising him in a public relations capacity. Her presence around the team has stirred concern, with some media outlets reporting that she was initially banned from the football facilities-claims the university later denied.

Regardless, the relationship has created distractions that are difficult for UNC to ignore, especially as Belichick tries to establish control over a major college program for the first time.

June 1 buyout clause could be key

Adding to the uncertainty is a critical financial detail in Belichick's contract. On June 1, 2025, the buyout clause in his deal drops from $10 million to just $1 million. That reduction has sparked speculation that Belichick could use the date as an exit point if the situation at UNC becomes untenable-or if an NFL opportunity arises.

Media figures such as Pablo Torre have openly questioned whether Belichick will ever coach at all in Chapel Hill. Torre noted the "absolutely real chance" that Belichick walks away before the 2025 season even begins, citing dysfunction within the program and growing unease over the Hudson situation.

"I think there's a chance, an absolutely real chance that he doesn't [last to coach Week 1]," Torre said on The Dominique Foxworth Show.

"And the reason I say that is because even before the Jordon Hudson thing became as public ... the date that matters most is June 1 ... The buyout of Bill Belichick goes from $10 million to $1 million if Bill wanted the escape hatch."

Despite the rumors, UNC's leadership continues to back Belichick. Michael Lombardi, general manager of the football program and a longtime Belichick confidant, publicly defended him on "The Pat McAfee Show." Lombardi said the Hall of Fame coach is "1,000% committed" to UNC and labeled reports of Belichick eyeing an NFL return as "completely false."

Still, perception matters, and the ongoing media attention surrounding Hudson and Belichick threatens to derail what was supposed to be a new era for Tar Heels football. Belichick's credibility and focus are being called into question before the team has even taken the field under his leadership.

As June 1 approaches, all eyes are on whether Belichick doubles down on his commitment to UNC-or decides this high-profile experiment in college football isn't worth the baggage.