According to Ollie Connolly, a writer for The Guardian US and Read Optional, Bill Belichick has reportedly discussed buyout options with North Carolina’s leadership, signaling his willingness to pay his own $1 million buyout if he can find a “soft landing” elsewhere, whether it be with another team or in the media.
While that news is notable on its own, it could have an unexpected ripple effect that impacts Kentucky football.
Kentucky fans continue to eye Tulane head coach Jon Sumrall, a former Wildcat
player and assistant, as a potential top candidate to return to Lexington if Mark Stoops were to step away or be let go after the season.
However, Sumrall’s name had also been connected to North Carolina’s coaching search last year following Mack Brown’s firing.
If Belichick does leave UNC or he gets fired, don’t be surprised if Sumrall’s name gets thrown around again for the job.
Of course, the Arkansas Razorbacks are trying to replace Sam Pittman, and Sumrall could be the perfect replacement, and it would get him back in the SEC.
There will be plenty of other openings before the season ends. It will just be interesting to see if Sumrall stays another year at Tulane or if he finally goes to a Power 4 school somewhere.
For now, Belichick’s situation adds another twist to the coaching carousel. For Kentucky fans, it may complicate what many hoped could be a homecoming reunion for the fans and Sumrall.
