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Patriots Say Belichick Welcome as UNC Coach Confirms Ban on New England Scouts

Patriots’ public pushback contrasts with Belichick’s claim that he is unwelcome in Foxborough.

Sep 7, 2025; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel during the second half at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-Imagn Images
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Sep 1, 2025; Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels head coach Bill Belichick on the field before the game at Kenan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images/ File Photo
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Overview

  • Bill Belichick confirmed after UNC’s 20-3 win over Charlotte that New England Patriots scouts are barred from visiting the Tar Heels’ facilities.
  • Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel said on WEEI that, to his knowledge, Belichick is welcome at the team’s facility and pointed to Belichick’s appearance at Tom Brady’s 2024 Patriots Hall of Fame ceremony.
  • A Patriots spokesperson told the Boston Globe that Belichick “is, and always will be, welcome at Gillette Stadium,” directly disputing his characterization.
  • Reporting from ESPN and others said UNC officials informed Patriots personnel of the ban shortly before a scheduled scouting visit.
  • Several NFL evaluators warned that the team-specific ban and UNC’s broader limits on in-person access could harm Tar Heels players’ draft evaluations, especially for late-round or undrafted prospects.