Bill Belichick has broken his silence after UNC football GM Michael Lombardi was placed on paid administrative leave amid an ongoing university investigation.Lombardi, who joined Belichick in Chapel Hill following the legendary head coach’s move to college football in December 2024, was put on leave following an internal human resources complaint filed by a former staffer.Speaking to reporters as the Tar Heels opened training camp ahead of their season opener against TCU, Belichick offered a coy response when asked about Lombardi’s absence and how the front-office duties are being delegated.’We’re at a particular time of the year now where there are certain things that are in play, and certain things that are in play that will happen later in the calendar year,’ Belichick said. ‘So we’re taking it day to day and working through the things that are on the table right now.’When asked how the loss of his top executive impacts his daily operations, the eight-time Super Bowl champion added: ‘We’ve made a few adjustments, yeah. But I mean we’re working through the process.’ Bill Belichick has broken his silence after UNC football GM Michael Lombardi was placed on paid administrative leave amid an ongoing university investigation Lombardi, who joined Belichick in Chapel Hill following the head coach’s move to college football in December 2024, was put on leave following an internal human resources complaint While Belichick attempted to brush off the distraction, UNC administration made no secret of their frustration over the scandal overshadowing the start of preseason practice.UNC Chancellor Lee Roberts delivered a stern assessment of the situation, expressing dismay that the university’s leadership has been forced to manage the fallout.’I’m disappointed that we’re talking about this,’ Roberts told reporters. ‘We should be focusing on our student-athletes and on their success on the field and on all of the wonderful things that happen at this university every day.’It’s distressing to me and everyone else in the administration entrusted with leadership at this remarkable university that this is something that we have to spend time on.’The university confirmed via its Office of University Counsel that it is conducting a formal investigation into the allegations against Lombardi, though official details remain confidential.Lombardi has retained prominent sports attorney Tom Mars, who released a statement defending the former NFL executive and denying any wrongdoing.’Michael hasn’t been told anything about the nature of UNC’s investigation and welcomes the opportunity to clear his name, which has already been sullied by baseless statements and innuendo on social media,’ Mars said. Lombardi has been one of Belichick’s most trusted friends throughout his career in football Lombardi was Belichick’s first hire when he made the move into the college game’He is fully cooperating with UNC and expects the investigation will be swift, thorough, and fair.’In a statement provided to The Daily Mail on Thursday, UNC said: ‘As a result of concerns behind allegations that led to the personnel action regarding Michael Lombardi announced on July 27, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, through its Office of University Counsel, is in the process of investigating this matter.’Because this involves confidential personnel issues, the University will not comment on the nature of the allegations or discuss personnel information.’ The off-field turmoil comes on the heels of a difficult inaugural season in Chapel Hill for Belichick, with the Tar Heels posting a disappointing 4-8 record in 2025.Lombardi and Belichick first worked together in 1987 when Belichick was at the Cleveland Browns.He was a staunch defender of Belichick, 74, while his personal life and relationship with girlfriend Jordon Hudson, 25, has continued to claim attention.