CHAPEL HILL, N.C. ––A week into their fall camp schedule, North Carolina held its first practice in pads on Tuesday. Below are some observations from the week:
Return of Desmond Evans and British Brooks:
UNC’s Desmond Evans is back in action for the Tar Heels. The starting defensive end suffered an upper body injury against Pittsburgh last season, in what was the first injury of his football career. Evans’ time away from football was two-fold, as he focused on recovery and also took the opportunity to see what kind of difference he can make off the field. Observing from the bench, he was able to see the game from the outside looking in and took mental notes that he is now applying to his game prior to the start of the season.
Veteran running back British Brooks is back from injury in what will be his sixth year playing for the Tar Heels. He settled into more of a coaching role last year after missing all of last season due to a knee injury. Brooks says that his passion for the game is unwavering and that he will continue to provide for this team whether that’s through being the starting back or contributing on special teams, he’s here to win a chip. He adds experience to a young core, but that’s not to say this group is not experienced. With Brooks now fully healthy, he’ll be vying for a spot along with sophomores Omarion Hampton, George Pettaway and junior Elijah Green, who finished second on team in rushing yards (558).
Positional Depth at Safety:
The Tar Heels have returned three of their starters – Gio Biggers, Don Chapman, and Will Hardy, who is currently sidelined with an injury. UNC also brought in Derrick Allen from the transfer portal. The Georgia Tech vet has a good chance to contend for snaps and take one of those spots away from the returners, but he still has some developing to do.
Punt Return Options:
With Josh Downs no longer available for the return game, the team might look towards a player with similar stature to do the job—Nate McCollum. He’s done it at Georgia Tech and he can do it at North Carolina. Another option I’d slide in there would be George Pettaway. With his speed, there’s no doubt he can give the team good field positioning or go beyond that if he were in that spot.
Injury Update:
- Backup cornerback Lejond Cavazos has been ruled out of preseason practice with a lower-body injury that will require surgery. During on practice on Tuesday, Cavazos was leaning on crutches. While it’s unsure how long he’ll be out, he observed practice closely from the sidelines.
- Junior defensive back DeAndre Boykins and freshman Antavious ‘Stick’ Lane are out with lower body injuries.
