Michael Lombardi Resigned as UNC General Manager
The former general manager launched a newsletter following an internal investigation at the university.
Updated on Sept. 19, 2026 in Football
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Former University of North Carolina general manager Michael Lombardi has resigned from his position. The departure follows an internal investigation that found his actions disregarded university values and standards.
Why it matters
Lombardi chose to resign to allow the team to focus on the 2026 season following an internal investigation into the football program. His exit coincides with significant coaching staff changes scheduled for later this year.
Michael Lombardi earned an annual salary of $1.5 million while serving as the general manager for the University of North Carolina. His resignation comes after he was placed on paid administrative leave in late July 2026.
The players
Michael Lombardi
He is the former general manager of the University of North Carolina football program.
Steve Belichick
He currently serves as the defensive coordinator at the University of North Carolina.
University of North Carolina
This public research university serves as the primary institution overseeing its football program operations.
The details
Lombardi submitted his resignation on September 3, 2026, through a statement issued by his lawyer. He has since transitioned to publishing content for his new Substack newsletter, Football Done Right, which features posts on Tuesdays and Fridays.
Timeline
Late July 2026: Lombardi was placed on paid administrative leave.
September 3, 2026: Lombardi resigned as general manager.
September 19, 2026: UNC released findings of the internal investigation.
October 27, 2026: Steve Belichick will resign as defensive coordinator.
Season Trajectory
The departure of a high-level executive and the planned resignation of the defensive coordinator signal a major shift in the leadership structure at the University of North Carolina. These changes fundamentally alter the administrative stability of the program as the 2026 season progresses.
The resignation of the general manager and the upcoming departure of the defensive coordinator create immediate instability for the current coaching staff and roster management. These leadership changes complicate the strategic outlook for the remainder of the 2026 season.
The takeaway
Lombardi has shifted his focus to independent media creation through his new newsletter titled Football Done Right. Readers can expect further updates regarding the university's staff transitions as the scheduled departure of key coaches approaches.
What happens next
Steve Belichick is scheduled to resign from his position as defensive coordinator on October 27, 2026.
Further reading
For more on the developments within the program, visit Football.
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