Bill Belichick's first season as North Carolina head coach has been full of controversy, which could lead to the two parting ways before season's end.
While Belichick was such a high-profile hire for the Tar Heels, and his contract is hefty, it will not be too difficult to get out of the deal. Many big-name college coaches have large buyouts in their deals, but Belichick's deal is passed the point where North Carolina will have to pay the largest sum of money.
Instead, Belichick's buyout is more reasonable for anyone that wants to pay the Tar Heels for the coach. Here's a look at what it could take for the two sides to part ways.
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Bill Belichick contract buyout
If Belichick terminates his contract with North Carolina, his buyout will be worth $1 million.
Initially, Bill Belichick's buyout with North Carolina was for $10 million through June 1, 2025. Since that date is passed, the buyout dropped to $1 million and must be paid within 180 days of the contract's termination.
According to USA Today, Belichick's buyout is nowhere near the top of the list for NCAA coaches, as each of the 28-biggest buyouts are worth between $25 million and $105 million.
MORE: Will UNC fire Bill Belichick?
Bill Belichick career earnings
Over the course of his career, Belichick's contracts as head coach of the New England Patriots were largely confidential. A Bloomberg article in 2024 claimed that Belichick earned over $200 million with New England, as his final contract with the team was worth a reported $25 million a season.
Belichick's deal with the Tar Heels is worth $10 million per season over five years, but the coach will not get the full $50 million if he leaves midseason.
MORE: What is Bill Belichick's net worth?
Bill Belichick UNC record
Bill Belichick is 2-3 in his first season as the North Carolina head coach, but is 0-1 so far in ACC play.