North Carolina Football Searches for New GM Following Lombardi's Suspension

North Carolina's football program is actively seeking a new general manager following the suspension of Michael Lombardi on July 27, who was the highest-paid GM in college football. Lombardi, appointed by head coach Bill Belichick, officially resigned in early September amid an HR investigation.

Belichick has been managing the GM responsibilities since Lombardi's departure, but a permanent replacement is expected to be appointed soon. The Tar Heels currently hold a 4-3 record, with hopes for a bowl game, although the program has struggled to maintain a winning record since 2000.

The search for a new GM is being led by consulting firm TurnkeyZRG, with former Michigan GM Sean Magee involved. The new GM may report to both Belichick and athletic director Steve Newmark, a shift from Lombardi's direct reporting to Belichick. As college football increasingly mirrors the NFL, the role of the GM is becoming more crucial, especially with rising roster budgets.