Elite 2027 Edge Rusher Honored to Meet UNC Football Head Coach

UNC football recently targeted and hosted South Carolina prospect Jaiden Bryant.
UNC football head coach Bill Belichick and retired Tar Heel basketball legend Roy Williams
UNC football head coach Bill Belichick and retired Tar Heel basketball legend Roy Williams / Bob Donnan-Imagn Images

Jaiden Bryant is still only 15 years old. But the projected 2027 four-star is already the reigning All-Region Defensive Player of the Year for an Irmo High School (S.C.) squad that finished 13-2 overall. And the 6-foot-4, 255-pound explosive defensive end's offer sheet, including the UNC football program, is beginning to align with his early prep accomplishments.

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He announced an offer from the Tar Heels on social media last week and has since pinned that post on his X account.

Plus, Bryant was in Chapel Hill for a UNC football visit over the weekend. Afterward, he shared the following photo of himself and first-year Tar Heel leader Bill Belichick, noting that "it was an honor meeting" the former six-time New England Patriots Super Bowl champion while thanking the staff for its hospitality and pointing out his desire to return in the future:

His offer out of Chapel Hill bumped his tally to six, as the Tar Heels joined Penn State, South Carolina, Miami (Ohio), Virginia Tech, and Florida State in the Jaiden "Boog" Bryant sweepstakes.

Across 13 outings as a mere sophomore last season, Jaiden Bryant recorded 92 tackles, 26 for a loss, 18.5 sacks, 12 quarterback hurries, seven pass deflections, and four forced fumbles. He figures to debut at No. 1 among 2027 edge rushers in South Carolina.

ALSO READ: Nearby OL Expresses Excitement Following UNC Visit

Stay tuned to North Carolina Tar Heels On SI for more UNC football recruiting news.


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Matt Giles
MATT GILES

Matt Giles is the editor and publisher of North Carolina Tar Heels on SI, Duke Blue Devils on SI, and NC State Wolfpack on SI, making him a key source for comprehensive coverage of these storied college basketball programs. Since joining UNC on SI in 2023, Matt has been dedicated to providing in-depth analysis, breaking news, and exclusive content on all three teams. He covers everything from game previews and recaps to player profiles and recruiting updates. Matt's expert knowledge of these teams has made his work a go-to resource for fans and followers of Duke, NC State, and UNC. As publisher, he shapes the editorial direction, ensuring that the most relevant and timely information reaches his audience.