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Momentum Builds: UNC Football Reels In Another Coveted Recruit

UNC football head coach Bill Belichick and his cohorts landed a second California prep in as many days.
Matt Giles|
UNC football
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North Carolina Tar Heels

On Sunday afternoon, Junipero Serra High School (Calif.) three-star cornerback Marcellous Ryan announced his commitment to the UNC football program. One day later, Rancho Cucamonga High School (Calif.) three-star cornerback Justin Lewis followed suit, becoming the third piece to Bill Belichick & Co.'s 2026 recruiting collection.

RELATED: New UNC Assistant Lands Heralded California Prep

Lewis is a 6-foot-2, 165-pound speedster who ranks No. 536 overall, No. 44 among cornerbacks, and No. 63 in California on the 247Sports 2026 Composite. His pledge, which he advertised via the following post on social media, comes just two days after receiving an offer from the Tar Heels:

Along with several other ACC suitors in Louisville, Miami, SMU, and Syracuse, Lewis also held offers from the likes of Washington, Colorado, Arizona, and Nebraska.

The additions of Justin Lewis and Marcellous Ryan, joining one longtime UNC football pledge in Providence Day School (N.C.) three-star quarterback Zaid Lott, have now bumped the Tar Heels to No. 31 overall and No. 7 among ACC programs on the 2026 recruiting trail, per 247Sports.

Meanwhile, first-year Tar Heel head coach Bill Belichick and his staff have also been highly active in compiling a formidable transfer haul for next season. That collection from the portal, including a couple of new four-star prizes within the past few days alone, currently stacks up at No. 16 in the country and No. 3 in the conference.

ALSO READ: Elite Transfer Offensive Tackle Commits to Tar Heels

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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