A Belichick in Chapel Hill
If you’re asking who is Steve Belichick, the answer is more complicated than ever. Known first as the son of legendary NFL coach Bill Belichick, Steve has built his own coaching résumé with the New England Patriots and now as defensive coordinator for the University of North Carolina Tar Heels. But in October 2025, his name is in the news not just for football strategy—but for off-field drama surrounding UNC’s program.
From Rutgers to the Patriots
Steve Belichick was born in 1987 and grew up immersed in football. Before coaching, he played lacrosse at Rutgers University and even served as a long snapper for the football team.
Rutgers lacrosse: Four-year player (2008–2011).
Football: One season as a long snapper.
Patriots coaching: Defensive assistant (2012–2015), safeties coach (2016–2018), defensive backs coach (2019), outside linebackers coach and defensive play-caller (2020–2023).
By the time he left New England, Steve had already earned three Super Bowl rings.
The UNC Chapter
In 2024, Steve joined his father at the University of North Carolina, where Bill Belichick took over as head coach. Steve became defensive coordinator, tasked with reshaping the Tar Heels’ defense.
But the 2025 season has been rocky:
UNC started 2–3, sparking frustration among fans and media.
Reports surfaced of locker room fights and disorganization, though Steve downplayed them, saying the real issue was losing games.
His wife, Jen, fueled speculation by posting photos of a moving truck outside their Chapel Hill home, raising questions about whether the family is leaving North Carolina.
Did You Know?
Steve Belichick’s sideline expressions have gone viral multiple times. In 2020, his intense play-calling face became a meme, cementing him as one of the most recognizable assistant coaches in the NFL.
Mini Q&A: Steve Belichick Today
Q: Is Steve Belichick still at UNC? Yes, as of October 2025, he remains the Tar Heels’ defensive coordinator, though rumors swirl about his future.
Q: Why is Steve Belichick in the news? Because of UNC’s struggles, reports of locker room turmoil, and his family’s apparent move out of their North Carolina home.
Q: Could Steve Belichick return to the NFL? It’s possible. With his experience and name recognition, NFL teams may come calling if things unravel at UNC.
A Personal Take
I remember when Steve first took over defensive play-calling for the Patriots. Watching him on the sidelines, headset on, I thought: this is a guy who grew up in the game but still has to prove himself every snap. Seeing him now at UNC, under the microscope again, feels like déjà vu—only this time, the stakes are tied to his father’s legacy in college football.
Why Steve Belichick Matters Now
So, who is Steve Belichick in 2025? He’s a coach at a crossroads: a proven NFL assistant, a college defensive coordinator under fire, and the son of one of football’s greatest minds. Whether he stays in Chapel Hill, returns to the NFL, or takes another path, his career is a reminder that even in football dynasties, nothing is guaranteed.
Do you think Steve Belichick will weather the UNC storm—or is his next chapter already waiting in the NFL?