The University of North Carolina has formally opened an investigation into general manager Michael Lombardi of the Tar Heels football program, and head coach Bill Belichick offered few details as questions continue to surround the team during fall camp.
School officials announced Thursday that the inquiry had begun, days after confirming that Lombardi had been placed on leave. The move stems from unspecified allegations that led to the personnel action announced July 27. In a statement, the university said its Office of University Counsel is investigating the matter.
Belichick, speaking at a news conference, declined to address Lombardi's absence directly. «We're working through some things,» he said. «We're at a particular time of the year now where there are certain things that are in play, and certain things that are in play that will happen later in the calendar year. So we're taking it day to day and work through the things that are on the table right now.»
The investigation is being handled as a human resources matter, and no timeline has been set for its completion. Athletic director Steve Newmark said the school wants the process to move quickly but also needs to be done properly. «From our perspective, and I think there's a recognition across the board, that the university counsel's office is going to have this go as quickly as possible,» Newmark said. «But I think it's also important they do it the right way and they gather all the information they need.»
Newmark did not say whether anyone else in the athletic department is under scrutiny. He also declined to comment on reports of a separate College Sports Commission investigation into the Tar Heels' football program.
Chancellor Lee Roberts initially declined to address Lombardi's situation after a regularly scheduled Board of Trustees meeting, but he later voiced frustration over the attention the issue has drawn. «I'm disappointed that we're talking about this,» Roberts said. «We should be focusing on our student-athletes and on their success.... It's distressing to me and everyone else in the administration entrusted with leadership at this remarkable university that this is something we have to spend time on.»
Lombardi has retained attorney Tom Mars, who released a statement Friday saying his client has not been told the nature of the investigation and intends to defend his reputation. «Michael hasn't been told anything about the nature of UNC's investigation and welcomes the opportunity to clear his name, which has already been sullied by baseless statements and innuendo on social media,» Mars said. «He is fully cooperating with UNC and expects the investigation will be swift, thorough, and fair. Michael would ask that people have the decency to let the process run its course before jumping to any conclusions about the nature of the investigation or whether there's any merit to whatever has been alleged.»
The off-field situation marks the latest turbulence for a program that has drawn heavy attention since Belichick arrived. Before North Carolina played its first game under the former NFL coach, off-field headlines largely overshadowed football conversation. The Tar Heels finished 4-8 in Belichick's first season, and the program is now preparing for his second year as questions about Lombardi's status persist.
With fall camp underway, Belichick said little about how the investigation might affect team operations. His comments suggested the matter would be handled gradually. «We're taking it day to day,» he said, offering no indication of when more information might be available.
University leaders have emphasized that the investigation will be conducted carefully. Newmark said officials recognize the importance of resolving the situation promptly for the sake of the program. Still, the lack of public detail has left players, staff, and fans waiting for clarity about the leadership structure around the team.