Bill Belichick heading back to college at 72

Former New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick is returning to the sidelines after landing a five-year contract to take over at the collegiate North Carolina Tar Heels.

The deal, which is in the region of $50m must be ratified by the University of North Carolina's board of trustees and board of governors. A special session will be held on Thursday to do so.

Belichick's father Steve was an assistant coach at the University of North Carolina from 1953-55. Bill Belichick takes over a programme that has not won a conference title since 1980.

Belichick said in a statement released by North Carolina: "I am excited for the opportunity at UNC-Chapel Hill. I grew up around college football with my Dad and treasured those times. I have always wanted to coach in college and now I look forward to building the football program in Chapel Hill."

North Carolina chancellor Lee H Roberts added in a statement, "This is an exciting day for Carolina football and our University. Carolina is committed to excellence and to creating an opportunity to succeed in everything we do, from the classroom to the field of competition. I know after speaking with Coach Belichick that he shares that commitment. His legacy speaks for itself, and we look forward to working together on the next chapter of Carolina football."

Belichick will replace Mack Brown, who was fired at the end of the regular season. The Tar Heels (6-6) will play in the Fenway Bowl on 28 December in Boston.

Belichick, 72, parted ways with the Patriots following the 2023 season after 24 years with the franchise. He was out of coaching this year despite interviewing for multiple NFL vacancies and has been working multiple roles in the media.

Belichick has 333 wins as an NFL coach and needs