Just one week after Mack Brown declared his intention to continue coaching, North Carolina’s athletic department made a significant decision, announcing that Brown would not return after the 2024 season. The Tar Heels are now in search of a new head coach, and College Football Network (CFN) has compiled a list of potential candidates to replace the longtime coach.
When Brown was rehired in 2018, his role was initially viewed as that of a “bridge” coach, intended to stabilize the program while positioning North Carolina for a future hire. While Brown’s tenure included several successful seasons, including four eight-win campaigns, the team’s struggles—such as a lopsided defeat to James Madison earlier this year—highlighted the need for a change in direction. Now, the program is looking for fresh leadership to energize both the team and its recruiting efforts, particularly in regaining ground in the competitive North Carolina recruiting landscape.
Top Candidates to Replace Mack Brown at North Carolina:
- Zac Alley, Oklahoma Defensive Coordinator
At just 30 years old, Alley is one of the youngest coordinators in college football and would bring a youthful, energetic approach to North Carolina. A native of Charlotte, Alley has quickly risen through the coaching ranks, first with Clemson and then at Oklahoma under Brent Venables. His dynamic defensive schemes could be a game-changer for the Tar Heels. - Jamey Chadwell, Liberty Head Coach
Chadwell is a proven head coach with deep ties to the Carolinas and a reputation for running an innovative offensive system. Known for his success at Coastal Carolina and Liberty, Chadwell has also been a strong recruiter in North Carolina, which could help the Tar Heels regain their foothold in the state. - Charles Huff, Marshall Head Coach
Huff, 41, has built a successful program at Marshall despite tensions with the school’s administration. A strong recruiter, particularly in the DMV area, Huff has extensive experience coaching at Power Five schools and could bring a fresh approach to North Carolina. - Brennan Marion, UNLV Offensive Coordinator
Marion is known for his high-powered “Go-Go” offense, and his ability to recruit and develop talent makes him a rising star in coaching circles. With a history of success at various schools across the country, Marion could provide the offensive spark that North Carolina needs. - Robert Gillespie, Alabama Associate Head Coach / RBs Coach
A former assistant coach at North Carolina, Gillespie has built a strong reputation as one of the top running backs coaches in the country. With his ties to the program and his current success at Alabama, Gillespie could be a strong candidate to return to Chapel Hill in a head coaching role.
Other Possible Candidates:
- Chris Weinke, Georgia Tech Offensive Coordinator
- Dre Bly, Charlotte Defensive Analyst
- Clayton White, South Carolina Defensive Coordinator
- Clay Helton, Georgia Southern Head Coach
- Joker Phillips, NC State WRs Coach
- Jeff Monken, Army Head Coach
With these potential candidates, North Carolina aims to usher in a new era of success and rejuvenate its program under a fresh, dynamic leadership.