What’s happening at UNC football Athletics?

North Carolina has placed cornerbacks coach Armond Hawkins on suspension due to recruiting violations, as announced by the school on Thursday.

This suspension, which was initially reported by The Athletic earlier this week, pertains to additional benefits provided to recruits. However, the school stated that Hawkins will remain on leave while an investigation is conducted into "other potential actions that could harm the team and University."

Hawkins is currently in his first season as a full-time, on-field assistant coach, having previously served as a recruiting and defensive analyst at Washington under Steve Belichick, who is now North Carolina's defensive coordinator and the son of renowned coach Bill Belichick.

The news of Hawkins' suspension comes amid a wave of headlines involving Bill Belichick and North Carolina over the past week. This includes a letter from general manager Michael Lombardi to donors indicating that the Tar Heels are in a rebuilding phase, a significant loss to Clemson, the cancellation of a planned Hulu documentary about the team, and reports on Wednesday that Belichick and UNC were in talks regarding a possible buyout.

-

In other news, senior running back Caleb Hood, who began the season as the team's leading back, has decided to retire from football during the season. He shared his announcement through social media.

“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.”

After expressing his gratitude to Belichick and the coaching staff, Belichick also issued a statement offering a farewell message to the player.