Bill Belichick suffers major transfer portal loss at UNC as starting QB exits

Jeff Hauser

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Bill Belichick suffers major transfer portal loss at UNC as starting QB exits image

Bill Belichick and North Carolina took a significant hit in the transfer portal as starting quarterback Gio Lopez plans to enter the transfer portal, according to On3's Pete Nakos. 

Lopez transferred to North Carolina Tar Heels ahead of the 2025 season and went on to start all 11 of his appearances for the Tar Heels. He completed 65.1% of his passes for 1,747 yards and 10 touchdowns, with five interceptions, while adding 133 rushing yards and a touchdown.

The exit marks a notable loss for Belichick as he reshapes the program entering his second season in Chapel Hill. Lopez will be the 26th North Carolina player to enter the portal this offseason, underscoring the continued roster turnover facing the Tar Heels.

Before arriving at UNC, Lopez spent two seasons at South Alabama, where he enjoyed a breakout 2024 campaign. He started 11 games for the Jaguars, throwing for 2,557 yards and 18 touchdowns with only five interceptions, while rushing for a career-high 465 yards and seven scores. He redshirted during the 2023 season after appearing in five games. Lopez was ranked as a four-star transfer. 

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North Carolina finished 4-8 overall and 2-6 in ACC play last season with Lopez leading the offense. In December, Belichick hired former Arkansas offensive coordinator Bobby Petrino to call play in 2026. This also comes a day after Wisconsin transfer Billy Edwards announced he would be headed for Chapel Hill. 

Despite recent speculation, Belichick reiterated his commitment to UNC in November, stating he has not and will not pursue a return to the NFL.

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Staff Writer