India, May 14 -- Bill Belichick is not inclined to use his buyout clause to exit the University of North Carolina even before the season starts. On Tuesday, the new Tar Heels coach, an eight-time Super Bowl winner, cleared the air by admitting that he is 'looking forward' to working with the university to train and recruit college players. An NFL comeback now feels like a far-off story.

"I'm excited to be back in the coaches meetings and getting ready for June, then August when we get to training camp," Belichick told ESPN.

The controversy over Belichick's contract with UNC as head coach centers on his unsigned five-year, $50 million deal, announced in December 2024. The contract includes a $10 million buyout if he leaves before June 1,...