During the first half of April, it’s become clear that new UNC football head coach Bill Belichick is wasting no time making his mark. Alongside wrapping up the team’s spring practices, the 72-year-old coaching legend has been highly active on the recruiting trail, already making waves as he builds the future of Tar Heels football.
At the beginning of the month, North Carolina had already secured three commitments for the 2026 recruiting class. That momentum continued this past weekend when another promising prospect added his name to the growing list. On Saturday afternoon, four-star running back Jaylen McGill from Mountain View Preparatory School in South Carolina announced his commitment to UNC, sharing the news on social media.
McGill, a 5-foot-9, 215-pound back, is a significant addition for the Tar Heels. A heavily recruited player, McGill had received numerous offers from top college programs across the country. Before choosing UNC, he made unofficial spring visits to several high-profile schools, including Clemson, Georgia, Tennessee, and Texas—each known for their strong football traditions and competitive recruiting environments.
According to the 247Sports Composite rankings for the 2026 class, McGill is listed as the No. 255 overall recruit and ranks No. 6 in the state of South Carolina. His decision to commit to North Carolina is another positive sign for Belichick’s early efforts to build a nationally competitive program.
With McGill’s commitment, UNC’s 2026 recruiting class now includes 13 players. He becomes the third four-star prospect to join the group, joining defensive lineman Trashawn Ruffin from North Duplin High School in North Carolina and cornerback O’Mari Johnson out of Jackson Academy in Mississippi. The balance of high-level talent from multiple regions shows that Belichick and his staff are casting a wide net and successfully competing with some of the country’s top programs for elite recruits.
The current 2026 recruiting class for the Tar Heels is ranked 17th nationally by 247Sports, and fifth within the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC). These numbers are especially promising for a program undergoing a coaching transition and looking to reestablish itself as a major force in college football.
Belichick, well known for his NFL success, is showing early signs that he is adapting quickly to the demands of the college game. His proactive approach on the recruiting trail and ability to connect with top high school athletes are already paying dividends. Bringing in a talent like McGill, who had the attention of powerhouse programs, serves as both a statement and a foundation piece for what UNC hopes to build under Belichick’s leadership.
As spring progresses and recruiting continues, UNC fans can expect more action from Belichick and his staff. With a focus on building through strong recruiting and player development, the Tar Heels appear poised to make a leap in the coming seasons. McGill’s commitment is one more signal that the program is on the rise, and that Belichick is fully committed to turning UNC into a serious contender in both the ACC and the national picture.
