Bill Belichick has officially signed a contract to become the next head football coach at the University of North Carolina, with a deal that runs through the end of 2029. The contract includes a base salary of $1 million per year, but Belichick will also receive an additional $9 million per year in “supplemental income.” This brings his total annual compensation to $10 million.
Belichick’s contract makes him one of the top 10 highest-paid head coaches in college football, according to USA Today. The highest-paid coach in the country is Georgia’s Kirby Smart, who makes over $13 million per year.
The contract also includes incentives that would trigger massive paydays if certain conditions are met. For example, Belichick would receive a $750,000 bonus if the Tar Heels reach the College Football Playoff, and a $1.75 million bonus if they win a national title. He would also receive bonuses for reaching a bowl game and for finishing the season with a top 25 ranking.
The contract also includes a buyout clause, which would require Belichick to pay the university $10 million if he leaves before June 1, and $1 million if he leaves after June 1. Despite reportedly receiving interest from multiple NFL teams, Belichick has stated that he is committed to the Tar Heels program and plans to build a playoff roster through the new Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) system.