Two different sources tell FootballScoop that Arthur Smith, the former Atlanta Falcons head coach and current Pittsburgh Steelers offensive coordinator, would have an interest in a return to collegiate coaching after 15 years in the NFL. While more candidates certainly can and likely will emerge, the pool already is deep for North Carolina.

North Carolina announced Tuesday that Mack Brown will not return next season, one day after the Hall of Fame coach declared his intentions to return to the Tar Heels. Athletic director Bubba Cunningham informed Brown of his decision on Tuesday.

The North Carolina Tar Heels announced on Tuesday that Mack Brown would not return in the 2025 season. Brown is the all-time winningest coach in program history (113 wins) and will be coaching his final regular season game on Saturday as North Carolina faces North Carolina State.