David Thornton back to Colts roots

Posted May 31, 2012
David Thornton joined the Colts as a fourth-round draft pick in 2002. Thornton was a classic success story at North Carolina. He fashioned a career that saw him go from a freshman walk-on to a senior starting linebacker. Thornton’s final year was so noteworthy that he was voted team MVP on a squad that featured players who were the second and sixth overall choices in the NFL Draft, defensive linemen Julius Peppers and Ryan Sims. (Indianapolis Colts)

Related: Football, Tar Heels in the NFL

Patriots QB Drake Maye motivated by 'humbling' Super Bowl defeat
"I think that's the biggest thing about it: It's humbling. You've got to get back to work. When you're so close and within reach, you...
Mon Apr 13, 2026

Newsletter: Michael Malone Hired, UNC and the Transfer Portal, Maximo Adams still a Tar Heel
What a week! Michael Malone was hired as UNC’s new Men’s Basketball coach, the transfer portal is in overdrive, Maximo Adams is still a Tar...
Mon Apr 13, 2026

Melkart Abou Jaoude Takes Nothing for Granted, it's the Work that Counts
In the modern era of transfer portal, NIL, and poaching, it was a bit of a surprise that Melkart Abou Jaoude remained at UNC for...
Sun Apr 12, 2026

Savannah Bananas put Bill Belichick to work during Chapel Hill stop
On Saturday, Bill Belichick took a break from spring practice at UNC to try his hand at coaching first base for the Savannah Bananas, who...
Sun Apr 12, 2026