UNC running back Caleb Hood announces retirement from football

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. (WTVD) -- North Carolina's starting running back Caleb Hood said he is retiring from football five games into the 2025 season.

The fifth-year senior made the announcement Friday on social media, stating:

"After much thought, prayer and discussion with my family, I have decided to retire from football. My journey at UNC has been special and I appreciate my time here. l am excited to start the next chapter and will always take my memories of Carolina with me. I want to thank Coach Belichick, Coach Kitchens and Coach Means for giving me an opportunity, as well as all my other coaches and teammates throughout my years of football for the impact they've all had on my life!"

Head coach Bill Belichick responded in a separate statement, saying in part:

"Caleb is a great person, leader and exemplary teammate. He has done everything we have asked him to do as a student-athlete both on and off the field, and he has been a model representation of our program...He will always be a Tar Heel, and I wish him nothing but the best moving forward."

Hood rushed for 44 yards and one touchdown on 16 carries this season. He added six receptions for 29 yards.

The Rockingham native appeared in 31 games total, rushing for 515 yards and three touchdowns on 114 carries.

Note: Featured video is from a previous report.