During his time in the NFL, Bill Belichick had a knack for developing special teams stars.
An aspect of the game that is often overlooked, Belichick found guys who not only embraced being on the special teams unit, but ultimately thrived in that role. The perfect example is Brandon Bolden, an undrafted free agent who became a special teams ace during his 11-year career in the NFL, most of which came while he was playing for the Belichick-led New England Patriots.
With his playing days seemingly over, Bolden is paying it forward, using his knowledge and expertise to help a new wave of up-and-coming football players. Fittingly, that has led him to Chapel Hill, where he'll be giving his former head coach a hand at least over the next few weeks.
Brandon Bolden serving as a coach at UNC football's training camp
When the UNC football program took the field to open 2026 training camp on Thursday, Bolden was a newcomer quickly spotted by the media.
It was later reported that Bolden wasn't just visiting for the big day; he was actually there for a reason. Bolden will serve as a coach for the Tar Heels' special teams unit during training camp, helping his former head coach prepare the current roster for the upcoming season. It is unclear whether this is a temporary role or one that will keep the former pro with the UNC football program once the 2026 season gets underway on August 29 in Ireland.
Bobby Petrino provides some quality insight on UNC's quarterback competition
During his time in the NFL, Bolden was a productive running back when he had the ball. He totaled 1,394 career rushing yards and 13 touchdowns while adding an additional 959 receiving yards and seven more scores to his resume, but the main reason for his longevity in the league was what he was able to offer on special teams.
If anyone can help mold the Tar Heels special teams unit, it would be Bolden.
Special teams is more than just guys filling a role. To be good at it, you must have the mindset of buying in completely to what is needed from you. It's not only a way for younger guys to get on the field, but it also gives them a chance to prove their worth, opening up other opportunities at their normal positions.
Let's face it: if you can produce on special teams, a coaching staff is going to see what you can offer in other spots as well.
For guys who aim to play in the NFL, not everyone ends up being a star running back or wide receiver. Some guys make a living off being elite in a given role, and special teams is one of those roles that comes at a premium.
Melkart Abou-Jaoude gets snubbed in 2026 preseason All-ACC team voting
Hopefully, Bolden can offer words of encouragement and advice to UNC's special teams unit, helping put them in a strong position to succeed throughout the 2026 season and beyond.
Add us as a preferred source on Google