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Prime UNC Football Target Commits to SEC School Over Tar Heels

The number of 2026 UNC football pledges remains in single digits for now and includes one four-star.

Matt Giles

UNC football head coach Bill Belichick
UNC football head coach Bill Belichick / Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images
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First-year UNC football head coach Bill Belichick and his staff entered the fray for Booker T. Washington High School (Ala.) junior cornerback Dylan Purter just over two weeks ago. And they made a splash, as the 6-foot-1, 172-pound four-star considered the Tar Heels among his three finalists, along with LSU and Kentucky.

ALSO READ: Another Four-Star Defender Joins Deep UNC Transfer Collection

But on Friday evening, Purter pledged allegiance to LSU. The Tigers extended an offer to him in mid-February, and evidently, LSU head coach Brian Kelly and his crew made the coveted talent feel right at home when hosting him in Baton Rouge for the first time earlier this month.

Purter checks in at No. 285 overall, No. 25 among cornerbacks, and No. 15 in Alabama on the 247Sports 2025 Composite.

Although Belichick and his cohorts came up short in their pursuit of Dylan Purter, they're off to a strong start on the 2026 recruiting trail. Their nine-deep early haul, featuring one four-star prospect in North Duplin High School (N.C.) defensive lineman Trashawn Ruffin, currently stacks up at No. 23 in the country, according to 247Sports, and No. 6 in the ACC.

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.

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