Bill Belichick and UNC Football Land 4-Star WR Carnell Warren Over Arizona State
North Carolina football and head coach Bill Belichick added a major piece to their 2026 recruiting class on Wednesday, securing a commitment from 6-foot-5 wide receiver Carnell Warren. The four-star prospect, ranked as the No. 8 player in South Carolina by 247Sports, chose the Tar Heels over offers from Arizona State and Virginia Tech.
Warren, a standout at Bluffton High School, had drawn attention from 2024 College Football Playoff participant Arizona State and was seriously considering Virginia Tech before UNC made a late, convincing push. With this commitment, he becomes the 31st pledge in Belichick’s first full recruiting cycle with the Tar Heels.
Warren joins fellow 6-foot-5 offensive recruit, quarterback Travis Burgess, in UNC’s growing offensive arsenal. The Tar Heels also recently landed 6-foot-4 EDGE rusher Ashton Blatt, who picked North Carolina over Penn State.
According to 247Sports’ Tom Loy, Warren was impressed by more than just Belichick’s legendary résumé. He credited wide receivers coach Garrick McGee and assistant coach Lance Thompson as key factors in his decision.
“UNC is the best place for me,” Warren told Loy. “I’ll get the chance to develop under elite coaches and make an early impact. Coach McGee and Coach Thompson really stood out to me throughout this process.”
Warren added that he’s “fired up” to arrive in Chapel Hill and had a message for the fan base: “As a player, UNC is getting a top talent who’s ready to work from day one. Off the field, I’m a serious but caring person who’s always willing to help.”
247Sports scouting director Andrew Ivins described Warren as a “hulking wide receiver with plus athleticism” in his evaluation. As a junior, Warren racked up 14 touchdowns in 11 games, showcasing his big-play potential.
In addition to his football skills, Warren brings a basketball background to the field, giving him an edge in jump-ball situations. He’s not just a red-zone threat—he’s also capable of sharp cuts in space, executing screens, and creating separation on in-breaking routes.
With size, athleticism, and versatility, Warren could become a dangerous target for the Tar Heels in 2026 and beyond—offering Belichick a dynamic playmaker to build around on Saturdays.
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