3 Things We Learned About New UNC Football Defense

Here are a few takeaways we have from training camp about the Tar Heels' new-look defense.

Jul 17, 2026; Charlotte, NC, USA; North Carolina head coach Bill Belichick, with the media during interviews at Hilton Charlotte Uptown. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

The North Carolina Tar Heels are preparing for a season with major repercussions on the line, and the coaching staff needs to nail the evaluation process during training camp.

Throughout the opening weeks of the Tar Heels' training camp, we have learned several things about the team. Last week, we covered the data we had compiled from the offensive side of the ball. Today, we shift our focus to the defense. Here are a couple of things we have learned about that side of the ball, as the regular season draws closer.

Transfer Portal Additions Making Noticeable Impact

Sep 20, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Southern California Trojans running back Eli Sanders (1) runs the ball ahead of Michigan State Spartans defensive back Ade Willie (6) during the first half at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

While addressing the media last week, head coach Bill Belichick was asked about multiple incoming defensive players and their ability to produce right away. Those included Jaylen Harvey and Ade Willie.

Belichick highlighted Harvey's raw talent and natural physical traits as exciting components in his development and potential role on this defense. Meanwhile, the 74-year-old head coach praised Willie's ability to make an impact in pass coverage and tackling. Belichick explained that the secondary is experienced, and Willie is capable of carving out a consistent role for himself, despite multiple veterans returning.

Derek McDonald and Peyton Seelmann Building Chemistry

Sep 9, 2023; Syracuse, New York, USA; Syracuse Orange linebacker Derek McDonald (15) against the Western Michigan Broncos during the first half at the JMA Wireless Dome. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports | USA TODAY Sports via Reuters Connect

The former Syracuse linebacker also spoke with the media last week, highlighting how the coaching staff has made his transition to Chapel Hill easier. Additionally, McDonald honed in on his role on the defense, while highlighting his on-field relationship with Seelmann, who transferred from Richmond this offseason.

With Khmori House - who led the Tar Heels in tackles last season - among other linebackers departing the program this offseason, North Carolina's front office had to reinvent the heart of the defense. It's safe to say that the Tar Heels have done just that, with McDonald and Seelmann signing in the transfer portal. Adding those two players to the roster provided hope that the defense would not skip a beat, and based on McDonald's comments, that hope has been somewhat validated.

Defensive Lineman Looking To Take Next Step

Sep 20, 2025; Orlando, Florida, USA; UCF Knights running back Myles Montgomery (22) is tackled by North Carolina Tar Heels defensive lineman Leroy Jackson (91) during the first quarter at the Bounce House Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Watters-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

North Carolina's defense was the strength of the team in 2025, and that is expected to be the reality in Chapel Hill once again this season. Although the defensive line was productive, with Melkart Abou Jaoude anchoring the unit with 10.5 sacks, the ceiling could have been much higher if the interior was more effective.

When speaking with the media last week, defensive tackle Leroy Jackson stated he has taken it upon himself to improve in several areas to help this defense take the next step. Jackson pointed to improving his agility and hand speed as areas that will help him take the next step in development.