The sudden firing of Mack Brown from his role as head coach at North Carolina has sent shockwaves through the football world. After Brown announced he’d return for another season, UNC’s decision to part ways has raised many questions. There’s growing curiosity about how those close to the program, especially the players who worked under him, feel about this unexpected move.
Drake Maye Moved by Mack Brown Firing
One voice in the mix is Patriots rookie and former UNC quarterback Drake Maye, who spoke openly about how much Brown meant to him personally. In a recent exchange after the news broke, Maye reflected on his time with the coach.
“He meant the world to me. He’s probably the reason I went to North Carolina … I saw the news and I hate it for him … I know he left it all out there and he’s got no regrets,” shared Maye.
Patriots and former UNC QB Drake Maye on the news that HC Mack Brown was fired:
“He meant the world to me. He’s probably the reason I went to North Carolina … I saw the news and I hate it for him .. I know he left it all out there and he’s got no regrets.” pic.twitter.com/ll7hU6FMUa
— Arye Pulli (@AryePulli) November 26, 2024
Mack Brown’s Contribution to UNC
It isn’t hard to measure Brown’s impact on Maye and other players. His departure from North Carolina is more than just the end of a coaching era. He has managed to reshape the very fabric of the Tar Heels’ football program.
His legacy at UNC spans 16 seasons over two separate tenures, each bringing North Carolina football to new heights and leaving an indelible mark on players, staff, and fans alike.
Even after the news of their exit, Brown expressed deep appreciation for the journey via ESPN, saying, “While this was not the perfect time and way in which I imagined going out, no time will ever be the perfect time.”
He spoke with pride about the memories and relationships he and his wife, Sally, built during his tenure. Brown’s impact on UNC’s football program was far-reaching. He was the one who put life back in the Tar Heels during his second stint starting in 2019, which ultimately led the team to the ACC Championship Game in 2022 and guided 18 players into the NFL Draft throughout his tenure. He had a 113-78-1 record at UNC.
Mack Brown in his second stint at UNC:
• 44-32 (.578)
• 1-4 in bowl games
• One NY6 bowl appearances pic.twitter.com/NQnw8pgdfS— DraftKings Sportsbook (@DKSportsbook) November 26, 2024
Brown spearheaded enhancements in facilities and athletic resources. He advocated for investments in nutrition, strength, and conditioning to support his players’ development.
Besides on-field impact, Brown was also an enthusiastic fundraiser, building support for the football endowment and other UNC sports programs. He was committed to enhancing UNC’s football program, including staff expansion and resource development.
The end of Brown’s time with UNC might feel sudden, but the legacy of his contributions and the program’s growth under his leadership will always be there in Chapel Hill for years to come.