Bill Belichick Hires Former Patriots Star To UNC's Coaching Staff

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Bill Belichick Hires Former Patriots Star To UNC's Coaching Staff

Originally posted on The Spun | By Chris Rosvoglou | Last updated Feb 7, 2025 6:00 PM ET

Bill Belichick is adding a familiar face to his coaching staff at North Carolina.

On Friday, it was revealed that Belichick hired one of his former linebackers from the New England Patriots. The legendary coach has secured a deal with former All-Pro linebacker Jamie Collins. The former second-round pick from Southern Miss will be a defensive assistant for the 2025 season.

"I'm trying to step into another lane that I think I can be great in and that's coaching," Collins told TMZ. "I'm blessed for the opportunity. I love that dude, and he loves me. We'll see how it works. I'm grateful and ready."

Collins admit that he'd like to specifically coach North Carolina's linebacker room, but he's more than willing to do whatever Belichick asks.

"I'm going to be working with the defense right now, mainly linebacker. I'm not really sure of the specifics of it. I would mainly like to work with the linebackers because that's what I played and I can give more and do more at that position. But I'll do whatever they need me to do. If you need me to coach the secondary, I can do that too."

Collins played on the Patriots from 2013-2016 before being traded to the Cleveland Browns. He was on New England's roster when they won Super Bowl XLIX. In 2021, he returned to the Patriots for a second stint. Overall, he had 708 tackles, 39 passes defended, 26.5 sacks and eight fumble recoveries during his NFL career.

In theory, Collins should be able to resonate with the players in North Carolina's locker room. His experience as a player under Belichick could prove to be very valuable.

Only time will tell if Collins can use this opportunity at UNC as a launch pad for his coaching career.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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