Belichick says he won't pursue NFL coaching jobs

North Carolina head coach Bill Belichick announced Friday that he won't pursue any NFL head coaching vacancies after rumors linked him to the New York Giants' opening.

"I have great respect and genuinely care for the New York Giants organization and both the Mara and Tisch families," Belichick said in a statement obtained by ESPN's Adam Schefter. "The New York Giants played an important role in my life and in my coaching journey. It was a privilege for me to work for the Mara family and be a member of Coach (Bill) Parcells' staff for over a decade. However, despite circulating rumors, I have not and will not pursue any NFL head coaching vacancies.

"Since arriving in Chapel Hill, my commitment to the UNC football program has not wavered. We have tremendous support from the university, our alumni, and the entire Carolina community. My focus remains solely on continuing to improve this team, develop our players, and build a program that makes Tar Heel fans proud."

The Giants are looking for a new coach after firing of Brian Daboll on Monday. Belichick, 73, won two Super Bowls as New York's defensive coordinator in 1986 and 1990.

Belichick, who's considered one of the greatest coaches in NFL history, led the New England Patriots to six championships over 24 seasons.

The Patriots and Belichick parted ways in January 2024 following a 4-13 campaign. The Atlanta Falcons interviewed him for their coaching vacancy that same month before eventually hiring Raheem Morris.

North Carolina hired Belichick last December. The Tar Heels own a 4-5 record with three games remaining in Belichick's debut collegiate campaign.