As the football community holds its breath awaiting news on whether Bill Belichick will take on the coaching role at North Carolina, former Patriots star Rob Gronkowski has shed some light on what one might expect from his former coach in the college realm. Gronkowski, who spent nine seasons under Belichick's tutelage, while having no doubts about his coaching prowess in winning and strong football programs, does have concerns about his taking on this new challenge due to factors like the transfer portal and Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) issues.

Expectations and Doubts

When it comes to being a head coach in college, Gronkowski believes it's a different beast. It's not just about football; it's about managing the entire program and handling the recruitment of young athletes. "When you're a head coach in college, it's kind of like not really being a head coach. It's not about all football, it's more about managing the program and also managing these kids and recruiting them," he said on the Dan Patrick Show. He questions whether Belichick would be fully committed in this situation. Coaching-wise, there's no doubt about his ability to get players ready for the NFL. But when it comes to the recruiting aspect, that's where the uncertainty lies. "Me personally, I could see him getting tired and old with all that transfer portal, NIL stuff going on."

Game Planning and Preparation

Gronk believes that Belichick would shine when it comes to game planning and preparation at UNC. He has seen firsthand Belichick's strategic acumen and attention to detail. "He has a unique ability to analyze opponents and devise game plans that give his teams an edge. His attention to detail in practice and preparation is second to none. I think he would bring that same level of excellence to UNC," Gronkowski explained. He emphasized that Belichick's focus on the X's and O's of the game would translate well in the college setting.

Adjusting to a New Atmosphere

Coaching at UNC would be a significant departure from what Belichick is accustomed to in the NFL. He never had to deal with the complexities of recruiting and NIL deals. "The college landscape is a whole different ball game. There are so many more factors to consider when it comes to recruiting and dealing with these new rules and regulations. It's a learning curve that he would have to navigate," Gronkowski noted. However, he also believes that Belichick's adaptability and leadership skills would serve him well in this new environment.

Belichick's Perspective

Belichick did mention during Monday Night Football that he would approach a college football team as he would an NFL team, treating it as a "professional program." This shows his willingness to adapt and bring his expertise to a different level. Gronkowski respects Belichick's determination and believes that he would give it his all if he were to take on the coaching job at UNC. "He's a competitor through and through. He would see this as a new challenge and would give it his all to make it successful. I have no doubt about that," Gronkowski concluded.