**Freddie Kitchens Joins Bill Belichick’s UNC Coaching Staff**
On December 13, 2024, Bill Belichick made his first major move as head coach of the University of North Carolina football team by announcing the hiring of Freddie Kitchens. Kitchens, a former Alabama quarterback and longtime NFL coach, will be part of the Tar Heels’ coaching staff as Belichick begins his tenure with the storied program. The announcement came during Belichick’s highly anticipated introductory press conference, a key moment as he transitions from his successful run with the New England Patriots to college football.
Kitchens, a native of Gadsden, Alabama, is best known for his time as a player at the University of Alabama, where he played quarterback under legendary coach Gene Stallings. After a brief professional playing career, Kitchens turned to coaching, where he quickly gained a reputation for his leadership and football IQ. He spent years honing his craft in the NFL, including a significant stretch as a quarterbacks coach and offensive coordinator, most notably with the Cleveland Browns, where he also served as head coach for a short period.
In his recent role as the tight ends coach for the Tar Heels, Kitchens displayed his ability to develop talent at multiple positions. Over the past two seasons, North Carolina’s tight ends showed significant growth under his tutelage, becoming key contributors in both the passing and run-blocking game. Kitchens’ success in molding players at various positions, along with his deep understanding of offensive strategy, made him a perfect fit for Belichick’s new vision for the Tar Heels.
Belichick, who took the UNC head coaching job after a legendary 20-plus-year career with the Patriots, emphasized the importance of building a coaching staff that combines experience, leadership, and a commitment to player development. Kitchens’ extensive background in both college and the NFL aligns with Belichick’s goal of bringing a pro-style approach to North Carolina’s program. Belichick spoke highly of Kitchens during his press conference, noting his familiarity with high-level football, his ability to adapt to different systems, and his leadership qualities that are vital in building a successful team culture.
Kitchens’ hire signals a shift for UNC’s football program, as Belichick looks to transform the team into a perennial contender in the competitive ACC. His experience coaching in the NFL, where he worked with some of the best quarterbacks in the league, will also help elevate the Tar Heels’ offensive game. Kitchens’ expertise in working with tight ends will be especially valuable, as the position continues to play a pivotal role in both the passing and running game at the collegiate level.
The hiring of Kitchens also brings a sense of continuity and stability to the program, as he already has a relationship with the current players and coaching staff. Kitchens’ ability to relate to players, along with his proven track record of coaching success, provides the foundation for a strong coaching staff under Belichick.
As the first major hire of Belichick’s UNC era, Kitchens is expected to play a significant role in shaping the future of the Tar Heels football program. The pairing of Belichick and Kitchens combines a wealth of experience and knowledge of football at the highest levels, and it has the potential to set North Carolina on a path to long-term success. With the announcement of Kitchens’ hire, Tar Heels fans can look forward to an exciting new chapter in the program’s history under Belichick’s leadership.
