Former UNC football players remember star defensive tackle Donnell Thompson

Posted Sep 25, 2024
Donnell Thompson, a star defensive tackle on UNC's 1980 ACC championship team and 11-year NFL veteran, died Tuesday, Sept. 17, 2024. He was 65. Thompson — or “Foots” as he was known to his Tar Heel teammates due to his size-16 shoe — played alongside Lawrence Taylor as part of a fear-striking defensive line that was a linchpin to UNC's success. (Daily Tar Heel)

Related: Football, Tar Heels in the NFL

Michael Lombardi's Attorney Releases Statement Amid UNC Investigation
As UNC Football general manager Michael Lombardi remains on paid administrative leave, his attorney released the following statement Friday. "Michael hasn't been told anything about...
Fri Jul 31, 2026

Benjamin Hall Emerging as Leader of UNC Backfield
Benjamin Hall returns for his second season at UNC after his first full offseason with the program, having emerged as the leader among the Tar...
Fri Jul 31, 2026

UNC Football's Biggest Roster Weaknesses Entering 2026 Season
UNC's biggest weakness last year was the quarterback position, and it will remain so this season. The position is expected to be led by Billy...
Fri Jul 31, 2026

The Layering Process of Football Training Camp
Football training camp has changed over the years. Coaches used to take the first week to get their players in shape with two practices a...
Fri Jul 31, 2026