Bill Belichick signs first quarterback recruit as North Carolina coach

Just days after Bill Belichick’s shocking hiring as North Carolina’s new head coach, he got a prominent quarterback prospect to stick with him for the “Chapel Bill” era.

Four-star quarterback Bryce Baker has reportedly decided to sign with the Tar Heels On3Hayes Fawcett and ESPNThis is Eli Lederman. Baker was committed to UNC but considered transferring to Penn State. Belichick’s hiring strengthened Baker’s future on the field in Chapel Hill.

Accordingly ESPNBaker and Belichick had a phone conversation Thursday evening shortly after the new head coach was introduced. The conversation focused on Belichick’s plans to lead the Tar Heels, including his intention to run a “pro program.”

“Their experience in the NFL is huge,” Baker said via ESPN. “They were at the level I want to achieve. I feel like this sets them apart from many other schools. They want to develop me and know the intricacies that will help me achieve my goals. “I feel like (Belichick) will bring in the right pieces to build around me. You will give me priority.

According to ESPN, Baker is the fourth-best dual-threat passer in his recruiting class and the top recruit in North Carolina’s incoming class since his initial commitment in June 2023. He committed under former head coach Mack Brown, who brought Baker in to weigh his options once Brown was fired on November 26.

Now that Belichick is in the house, Baker decided to keep North Carolina as a potential signal-caller of the future for the six-time Super Bowl champions’ head coach.