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

Video: Carolina Football - The Process, Episode 2
North Carolina Football's long-form video feature The Process, Episode 2 goes behind-the-scenes with the Tar Heels' to highlight preparations for the upcoming season, team-building activities,...
Wed May 20, 2026

Bill Belichick opens up on relationship with first UNC Football team
"The group last year, I wouldn’t say they were disrespectful, that’s not the right word, but it was different. It was like they were recruited...
Wed May 20, 2026

Two UNC Football Players No Longer With Team Following Spring Practice
Two UNC Football players left the program following spring practice, a team spokesman confirmed Tuesday. Wide receiver Shenard Clower and defensive back Ty Adams are...
Tue May 19, 2026

UNC Football Opponent Snapshot: East Tennessee State
In an otherwise gauntlet of a football schedule — one of the country's toughest — North Carolina's lone game against a non-Power 4 opponent comes...
Mon May 18, 2026