North Carolina has fired head football coach Mack Brown, ending his second tenure with the Tar Heels after six seasons. Despite bringing national recognition to the program and achieving multiple bowl appearances, UNC opted for a change following a challenging 2024 season.
Here’s a closer look at Brown’s departure, his legacy, and what lies ahead for Tar Heels football.
North Carolina Tar Heels (UNC) fires coach Mack Brown
North Carolina announced Tuesday that it has fired head coach Mack Brown, confirming he will not return for the 2025 season.
Brown, 73, will coach the team’s final game against NC State before stepping down. His second tenure at UNC began in 2019 and ended with a 44-32 record over six seasons. He led the team to six bowl appearances and a 2022 ACC Championship Game appearance. Athletic Director Bubba Cunningham thanked Brown for rebuilding the program and mentoring 18 NFL draft picks.
The 2024 season, however, brought significant challenges. North Carolina holds a 6-5 record, with injuries and defensive struggles defining the year. The team allowed a school-record 70 points in a loss to James Madison. Starting quarterback Max Johnson also suffered a season-ending injury in the opening game. Recruiting for 2025 has declined, with the class currently ranked 78th nationally, an unusually low spot for the program.
Brown’s overall career achievements remain significant. He is the winningest coach in North Carolina’s history, with 113 wins across two tenures. Nationally, he ranks eighth in FBS coaching victories with 288 wins in a 36-year career, which includes a 2005 national championship at Texas. His second stint at UNC focused on modernizing the program, improving facilities, and enhancing recruiting efforts.
The university is now starting its search for a new head coach under a tight timeline. Early signing day for recruits is Dec. 4, and the transfer portal reopens on Dec. 9. The next coach must stabilize recruiting and address performance inconsistencies. Meanwhile, Brown will complete the season and possibly lead the team in a bowl game as the university transitions to new leadership.