Training camp for the UNC football program is officially underway on Thursday, but the focus is currently on off-the-field issues surrounding general manager Michael Lombardi.
Lombardi was placed on administrative paid leave earlier in the week due to a pending HR investigation, adding even more attention to a program that is simply trying to put together a better season than it did a year ago.
Of course, the media has been salivating over hearing from some important stakeholders in Chapel Hill, especially Bill Belichick. The head coach of the UNC football program did touch on the topic on Thursday morning, but to no surprise, really didn't provide much context.
Bill Belichick: "we're working through some things"
Belichick's comments focused on how the UNC football program is proceeding following this news, as the head coach of the Tar Heels admitted that they are collectively working through some things to help fill the currently temporary void.
“Well, we’re working through some things,” Belichick said. “You know, we’re at a particular time of year now where there are certain things that are in play and certain things that aren’t in play that won’t happen until later in the calendar year at some other points. So, you know, we’re taking it day to day and you know working through the things that are on the table now. We’ve made a few adjustments, yeah, but I mean, we’re you know we’re working through the process.”
Belichick's comments go hand in hand with Inside Carolina's report from earlier in the week, one that stated that the Tar Heels will take a "all hands on deck" approach to fill the void for the time being instead of naming an acting general manager.
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No one expected Belichick to give any type of concrete answers regarding the current situation, as his persona has always been one that doesn't give more information than what's needed. It's also wise for him not to open up on this pending investigation, allowing it to play out before discussing it in further detail.
The timing of this is the most frustrating part, as all the attention on Thursday should be the start of training camp for this year's team. Instead, the Lombardi situation is hovering over the program's head, one that could have major implications for the program moving forward.
During the day, more notable stakeholders, including Director of Athletics Steve Newmark and Chancellor Lee Roberts, are expected to speak on the matter. The Keeping It Heel team will continue to provide the latest updates regarding the situation, including what's being said in Chapel Hill on the first day of training camp.
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