Belichick, who was on the road Friday recruiting in Olney, Md., has told those close to him that he loves coaching at the college level. More than that, he believes they’re building something meaningful at UNC, a program with staying power. Lombardi is fully on the same page.

Belichick’s reported directive has fueled speculation about lingering tension with the franchise he led for more than two decades. Since leaving New England, he has remained publicly quiet about his departure and his relationship with Patriots owner Robert Kraft, even as fans continue to debate how the dynasty ended.

Andrew Siciliano and Frank Schwab break down the latest comments from Kevin Stefanski on the QB depth chart. They also address reports that UNC has begun having discussions around finding an "exit strategy" for coach Bill Belichick.

At the end of his Pats tenure post-Brady, Belichick was 29-38 over four seasons, making just one playoff appearance and losing spectacularly to Buffalo in the Wild Card round. His ability to identify, draft, and sign talent had clearly declined in the modern game, and without Brady, Bill struggled mightily to compete.