Batten: Talent in the Trenches
Posted Oct 6, 2011
Since the late 1980s, the Tar Heels have been able to attract a steady stream of defensive linemen to Chapel Hill. A total of 25 defensive ends or tackles who played for UNC since 1988 have been selected in the NFL draft, including seven over the past five years. Many in that group, like Greg Ellis, Vonnie Holliday, Ryan Sims, Russell Davis and, of course, Julius Peppers, have gone on to lengthy, successful professional careers.
(Tar Heel Illustrated)
Related: Football, Tar Heels in the NFL
Nicco Maggio Takes On Expanded Role Along UNC Defensive LineAs injuries have mounted across North Carolina’s defensive line, trial by fire has become a weekly reality for a handful of Tar Heels thrust into...
Thu Oct 22, 2026Extra Points: Keep Up The Fight
Two days earlier, Jelani Thurman had caught five passes for 50 yards and two touchdowns, and Benjamin Hall had carried the ball 10 times for...
Thu Oct 22, 2026
UNC Football’s Coaches Versus Cancer Shoe Auction Now Live
The UNC Football program welcomed pediatric cancer patients and their families to the Kenan Football Center for the annual Kicks for Kids event. In partnership...
Thu Oct 22, 2026
Video: Carolina Insider - UNC vs. Syracuse Football Preview
Jones Angell and Adam Lucas look ahead to North Carolina Football's next matchup, as the Tar Heels welcome the Syracuse Orange to Kenan Stadium this...
Thu Oct 22, 2026