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Another Four-Star Defender Joins Deep UNC Football Transfer Collection

The UNC football staff landed a veteran force out of Penn State in Smith Vilbert.
Matt Giles|
UNC football head coach Bill Belichick
UNC football head coach Bill Belichick | Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images

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North Carolina Tar Heels

Following six years in the Penn State football program, graduate edge rusher Smith Vilbert entered the transfer portal in late February with one season of college eligibility remaining. And on Wednesday night, the 6-foot-6, 282-pounder announced his commitment to first-year UNC football head coach Bill Belichick and the Tar Heels.

ALSO READ: Elite In-State Prep Ready to Visit UNC After NC State

A former top-tier three-star prospect out of Monsey, N.Y., Vilbert now checks in as a four-star transfer talent.

He ranks No. 142 overall and No. 17 at his position among players who entered the portal this cycle.

Vilbert, who missed the entire 2023 season due to injury, saw action in all 16 games last season for a Penn State squad that finished 13-3 overall, enjoying a bounceback campaign as a redshirt senior to the tune of 12 tackles, four for a loss, 1.5 sacks, one pass deflection, two forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery.

UNC football has secured 19 additions from this year's transfer portal. Vilbert became the fifth four-star in that haul, per 247Sports, joining former Troy offensive tackle Daniel King, Washington cornerback Thaddeus Dixon, Washington linebacker Khmori House, and UConn defensive lineman Pryce Yates.

ALSO READ: UNC Adds Four-Star Defensive Tackle to 2026 Class

Stay tuned to North Carolina Tar Heels On SI for more UNC football recruiting news.

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Matt Giles
MATT GILES

Matt Giles is the editor and publisher of North Carolina Tar Heels on SI, Duke Blue Devils on SI, and NC State Wolfpack on SI, making him a key source for comprehensive coverage of these storied college basketball programs. Since joining UNC on SI in 2023, Matt has been dedicated to providing in-depth analysis, breaking news, and exclusive content on all three teams. He covers everything from game previews and recaps to player profiles and recruiting updates. Matt's expert knowledge of these teams has made his work a go-to resource for fans and followers of Duke, NC State, and UNC. As publisher, he shapes the editorial direction, ensuring that the most relevant and timely information reaches his audience.

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