North Carolina has suspended cornerbacks coach Armond Hawkins for recruiting violations, the school confirmed Thursday.
As first reported by The Athletic earlier this week, this stems from allegations that Hawkins provided extra benefits to recruits during visits. He will remain on leave pending an investigation into “other potential actions detrimental to the team and University,” according to a statement.
Hawkins followed Bill Belichick's son, Steve, to UNC after previously being at Washington. He has four previous stops, including the one in Seattle and all with former Pac-12 teams.
Official statement from UNC on the suspension of Armond Hawkins: pic.twitter.com/6n79ICHEiI
— Shelby Swanson (@shelbymswanson) October 9, 2025
The suspension adds to a turbulent week in Chapel Hill. The program is in the midst of a PR nightmare with reports that Bill Belichick and UNC were discussing a potential buyout. This comes after a 38-10 loss to Clemson and the cancellation of a Hulu documentary about the program.
Belichick released a statement Wednesday night reaffirming his commitment to North Carolina, while athletic director Bubba Cunningham added the coach has “the full support” of the administration.
Belichick signed a five-year, $50 million contract with UNC in December. The Tar Heels are 2-3 this season with no Power Four wins. North Carolina is off this week before visiting Cal next Friday night.
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