Freddie Kitchens is a well-known name in American football coaching circles, having built a long career spanning college football, the NFL, and now under Bill Belichick at North Carolina. From his roots in Alabama to the highs and lows of his head coaching career, and his current role with one of football’s most legendary coaches, Kitchens’ journey is one of resilience and evolution.
Who Is Freddie Kitchens? (Early Life & Alabama Roots)
Freddie Kitchens was born on November 29, 1974, in Gadsden, Alabama. He played quarterback for the Alabama Crimson Tide from 1993 to 1997, where he was a key offensive leader. During his collegiate career, Kitchens threw for more than 4,600 yards and 30 touchdowns, helping Alabama to wins in notable bowl games such as the 1995 Citrus Bowl and 1997 Outback Bowl.
His playing days at Alabama laid a foundation for scoring instincts and leadership – skills that later shaped his coaching path.
Coaching Career Journey
From College Assistant to the NFL
After graduating, Kitchens began coaching at smaller programs like Glenville State and LSU, before moving through various roles at North Texas and Mississippi State.
In 2006 he entered the NFL coaching ranks with the Dallas Cowboys, quickly rising through positions with the Arizona Cardinals and others. His NFL journey culminated with the Cleveland Browns, where he became head coach in 2019.
Fired: NFL Head Coach Stint
Kitchens’ lone season as the Browns’ head coach in 2019 ended with a 6-10 record. He was fired after that season, marking a tough moment in his coaching career.
But instead of ending his coaching journey, this setback became a bridge into new opportunities.
Return to College Football & Current Role
Kitchens transitioned back to college football and joined the North Carolina Tar Heels coaching staff. He initially served under Mack Brown, later becoming interim head coach for the Fenway Bowl following the 2024 season.
With the blockbuster hiring of Bill Belichick as UNC head coach, Kitchens has been retained and now serves as the offensive coordinator and tight ends coach under Belichick’s leadership.
Freddie Kitchens’ Salary (2025 & Beyond)
Kitchens’ current compensation as part of the UNC staff reflects both his experience and value within a high-profile program:
Reported Salary Breakdown
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Base Salary: Around $622,001
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Bonus Potential: Approximately $313,500
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Total: Around $935,500 annually (according to recent media reports).
Kitchens’ salary is competitive among assistant coaches at major college programs, especially those with NFL experience.
Bill Belichick Connection
The arrival of Bill Belichick at the University of North Carolina has been one of the most talked-about coaching moves in recent sports history. Belichick, famous for his 6 Super Bowl championships with the New England Patriots, took over UNC with a $10 million per year contract.
Belichick’s leadership significantly raised expectations for the Tar Heels’ program. One of his first decisions was to retain and elevate Kitchens on his staff, citing respect for Kitchens’ experience and coaching ability.
This move offers Kitchens a major platform to rebuild his reputation and make a significant impact on a rising college football program.
What’s Next for Freddie Kitchens? (Updates)
Freddie Kitchens is now positioned at the intersection of NFL experience and elite college coaching under Belichick. His role as offensive coordinator with UNC gives him a chance to:
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Showcase play-calling and leadership skills
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Help develop future NFL talent
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Boost his coaching profile for potential future head coaching opportunities
As Belichick steers the Tar Heels toward competitiveness, Kitchens’ evolution remains one of the compelling stories in football coaching today.
Summary
Freddie Kitchens has navigated peaks and valleys—from his quarterback days in Alabama to being fired in the NFL, to rebuilding his career in college football. Today, as part of Bill Belichick’s UNC staff, he earns a strong salary and plays a key role in shaping a program with national aspirations. His journey is a testament to adaptability and perseverance in the high-stakes world of football coaching.
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