Bill Belichick continues to say he's focused on UNC, not the NFL

As should-be Hall of Fame head coach Bill Belichick prepares for his second season in college with an opening game in Ireland, he was asked if he ever sees himself returning to the NFL.

“I’m focused on UNC right now absolutely,” Belichick said, via Brian Murphy of WRAL. “I’ve recruited these kids, two years with them, been with these guys. I want to help them. I had a great experience in the NFL, but I’m very happy at North Carolina. I’m excited to be there. Excited about the future of our program.”

The reality is that Belichick won’t have a chance to return to the NFL unless someone wants him. Through three hiring cycles since the Patriots fired Belichick, he has had one interview.

This year, with 10 openings, his name never came up. Last year, the Raiders and Tom Brady hired Pete Carroll without taking a serious look at Belichick.

It’s difficult if not impossible to imagine Belichick back in the NFL. No fan base is clamoring for him. No front office will want to work with him. No owner will become smitten with the notion that he’ll turn an also-ran into a champion.

The bigger question is whether he’ll unlock a third season at North Carolina. If this season goes like last season for UNC, he may be SOL in 2027.