ACC Insider: Young players stand out in league

Posted Sep 24, 2009
Butch Davis said the only way to allow players like Erik Highsmith to grow is to put them on the field. The player often gains confidence from there, even though there might still be a learning curve ahead. UNC lost three receivers to the NFL Draft in April, but Highsmith’s emergence combined with junior receiver Greg Little’s numbers might help lessen the load on quarterback T.J. Yates and the rest of the Tar Heels’ offense. (Rocky Mount Telegram)

Related: Football, Tar Heels in the NFL

Chansky’s Notebook: Building Depth
The transfer portal is not helping most schools. The can’t-miss prospects want to win championships and make the most money, which is why Beau Atkinson...
Tue Jan 13, 2026

Where UNC Football Stands at Defensive Tackle
Entering the transfer portal window, UNC's defensive tackles were shaping up to be one of the Tar Heels' biggest areas of strength. With C.J. Mims,...
Tue Jan 13, 2026

Betting on Brilliance: What Bobby Petrino brings to UNC Football
UNC hired one of the most notable, yet controversial, figures in college football over the past 25 years as its new offensive coordinator: Bobby Petrino...
Tue Jan 13, 2026

Video: IC Podcast - Transfer QB Billy Edwards, Jr. Looks to Make Big Impact at UNC
Greg Barnes and Tommy Ashley of Inside Carolina discuss the journey of Billy Edwards, Jr., the impact the veteran quarterback can make on the UNC...
Mon Jan 12, 2026