Bill Belichick’s wild week continues with UNC player retiring after five games

The rollercoaster week for North Carolina head coach Bill Belichick took another twist Friday.

Fifth-year senior running back Caleb Hood announced his retirement from football after five games this season. Hood shared his decision in a heartfelt Instagram post, citing deep reflection and family discussions before stepping away.

“After much thought, prayer and discussion with my family, I have decided to retire from football,” Hood wrote.

“My journey at UNC has been special and I appreciate my time here. I am excited to start the next chapter and will always take my memories of Carolina with me. I want to thank Coach Belichick, Coach Kitchens and Coach Means for giving me an opportunity, as well as all my other coaches and teammates throughout the years.”

Thank you Carolina 🫶🏾 pic.twitter.com/zUGHIkhpcv

Belichick released a statement Friday morning supporting Hood’s decision and commending his leadership.

“Caleb came to me Wednesday and shared his difficult decision to retire,” Belichick said. “He’s a great person, a leader and an exemplary teammate. He’s done everything we’ve asked him to do as a student-athlete both on and off the field and he has been a model representation of our program.”

Thank You @calebhood05 🩵 https://t.co/sHiBYhsPSO pic.twitter.com/8isjhXWW6b

Hood played in five games this season, logging 85 snaps, which was second among UNC running backs behind Demon June. He started the opener against TCU and finishes his career with 114 carries for 515 yards and three touchdowns. His father, Errol Hood, played cornerback for UNC from 1998 to 2001.

The news adds to a chaotic week in Chapel Hill.

Following a 38-10 loss to Clemson, reports surfaced that Belichick discussed a potential early exit and buyout reduction with the university. Tar Heels assistant coach Armond Hawkins was suspended for a recruiting violation, and rumors have swirled about player altercations and a “toxic environment” within the program.

UNC is on a bye week and will travel to face California next Friday (10:30 p.m. ET, ESPN).

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