All Tar Heels

UNC Football Recruiting: Three-Star Safety Jalon Thompson Signs NLI

Versatile defender Jalon Thompson is officially a future UNC football player.

Matt Giles

Photo credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
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Olympia High School (Fla.) safety Jalon Thompson, one of five Floridians in the 2024 UNC football recruiting haul, committed to the Tar Heels in early August and signed his national letter of intent on Wednesday, the first day of the early signing period.

Thompson, a three-star, sits at No. 612 overall, No. 62 at his position, and No. 84 in Florida on the 247Sports 2024 Composite.

The Tar Heels announced Thompson's signing with the following posted videos on social media:

Here is 247Sports recruiting analyst Don Callahan's brief evaluation of the multi-faceted defender and a projection of his role in Chapel Hill:

"During his senior season alone, Thompson played every secondary position. Given that versatility plus his strength, comfort operating within the box, and linebacker mentality, he fits best in a hybrid nickel back/linebacker role (e.g. star). There, the 6-foot, 180-pounder’s length will be at a premium."

UNC football will welcome Jalon Thompson and 19 others as early enrollees. The total number of signees sits at 27, the most for the Tar Heels in 15 years. And the class ranks No. 26 in the country and No. 4 in the ACC behind Miami, Florida State, and Clemson.

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Stay tuned to All Tar Heels on SI.com 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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