Can UNC’s Defense Turn the Corner | North Carolina Tar Heel Football News

North Carolina football’s 2025 season was a tough four and eight, even with Bill Belichick at the helm — but don’t count them out yet. The Tar Heels are reloading with elite transfers on offense while keeping their defensive core intact, led by All-ACC pass rusher Melkart Abou-Jaoude. With Belichick’s defensive blueprint and a returning starting unit, the 2026 season could be a breakout. Two key defensive linemen — Leroy Jackson, the emerging run-stopper, and Isaiah Johnson, the versatile pass-rusher — could be the difference-makers. If they anchor the trenches, North Carolina might finally turn the corner. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/9fa1c8abe5a61925