Rob Gronkowski lays down timeline for Bill Belichick's return to NFL after UNC HC's disastrous debut season

Rob Gronkowski doesn't expect Bill Belichick back in the NFL soon. The retired tight end believes his former coach needs at least another year or two before considering a return to professional football.

Gronkowski won three Super Bowls while catching passes in Belichick's offense.

"There's so many openings right now, and I believe that coach Belichick, his mold and his style fits more in the NFL compared to where he's at now in college football," Gronkowski said on Tuesday, via the "Up & Adams" show.

"But I can never discount him out that he won't be back in the NFL some way, somehow, but I just don't right now, I just don't see where and when and how it fits."

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Gronk isn't shutting the door on a Belichick NFL return just yet... Where would he fit best? 🤔 @RobGronkowski | @heykayadams

Belichick made his college football coaching debut this season with the North Carolina Tar Heels. However, the team had a losing campaign (4-8, 2-6 ACC), and dropped its last three games. It failed to qualify for the postseason or a bowl game.

Rob Gronkowski cites UNC situation as main obstacle for Bill Belichick's return

North Carolina v NC State - Source: Getty

Rob Gronkowski thinks Chapel Hill creates too many complications for Bill Belichick to leave.

"I think if coach Belichick does go to the NFL, I think it's going to be at least another year or two when things settle down more, when he gets more established at the University of North Carolina with whatever happens down there," Gronkowski said.

"So I think there's just too much tension out there of what's going on as the head coach of UNC, their season just ended, and I can see him going back to the NFL."

NFL teams still want Belichick despite the collegiate struggles. Multiple franchises might talk to him behind the scenes about coaching jobs, according to CBS Sports' Josina Anderson.

Belichick won six championships during his time leading New England. He was also named a finalist for the 2026 Pro Football Hall of Fame class, alongside Patriots owner Robert Kraft.