Freddie Kitchens Takes Helm as Interim Head Coach at UNC

Date: December 1, 2024
Location: Chapel Hill, N.C.

The University of North Carolina (UNC) has announced that Freddie Kitchens, a seasoned NFL coach, will serve as the interim head football coach. This decision follows the departure of Mack Brown, whose tenure was marked by notable achievements but concluded with a loss against rival NC State. Kitchens, who joined UNC in February 2023, has been instrumental in developing the team's run game and tight ends over the past two seasons.

A New Leadership Era Begins

Director of Athletics, Bubba Cunningham, expressed confidence in Kitchens' abilities, stating, "Freddie Kitchens is an incredibly talented coach who is respected by our student-athletes and staff. He is dedicated to doing all he can to help lead our program through this transition, and we appreciate his willingness to take on this role." Kitchens' experience as the head coach of the Cleveland Browns and his history in the NFL—and a Super Bowl run with the Arizona Cardinals—positions him as a strong candidate to guide the Tar Heels during this significant shift.

Transitioning from Mack Brown

The change comes in light of Mack Brown's recent termination, which was communicated to him last week, leading to the conclusion of his coaching career at UNC after the recent 35-30 loss to NC State. Brown had a commendable career with the Tar Heels, culminating in a 6-6 record this season, but it was evident that a new direction was needed for the program moving forward. In his own words, Brown mentioned, "We could've done a joint press conference, I could've stayed and we could've worked all of this out where I worked here for a while, but that didn't happen."

Kitchens' Background and Experience

Before stepping into his new role, Kitchens was a Senior Football Analyst at South Carolina for a year. His prior coaching stints in the NFL amassed over 16 years, with highlights including a leadership position as the head coach of the Cleveland Browns. His extensive experience is expected to be pivotal as the Tar Heels prepare for an upcoming bowl game, marking an important opportunity for him to showcase his strategic acumen on a larger stage.

Looking Ahead: The Upcoming Bowl Game

With Kitchens at the helm, the UNC football program now sets its sights on their bowl game. The team, having earned bowl eligibility with a 6-6 record this season, will soon learn its upcoming match-up. It's a critical time for Kitchens to implement his vision for the team, rally the players, and ensure they are well-prepared to compete.

In conclusion, Freddie Kitchens stepping up as the interim head coach marks a significant transition for the UNC football program as it aligns for a renewed direction following Mack Brown's tenure. The university community looks forward to seeing how Kitchens can harness his background and expertise to lead the Tar Heels into their forthcoming challenges on the field.