Why Leroy Jackson a Key Component on UNC's Defense

We are less than three weeks away from the North Carolina Tar Heels opening their regular season against the TCU Horned Frogs in Dublin, Ireland. It will be the second consecutive season North Carolina will open against the Horned Frogs.

When assessing the roster, the Tar Heels have improved in multiple departments, but the defense needs to be the catalyst for the team once again in 2026. This offseason, we ranked the top 30 players, and the top of the list was dominated by defensive players. One of those players was defensive tackle Leroy Jackson, who is entering his third season in Chapel Hill.

Nov 8, 2025; Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA; Stanford Cardinal quarterback Elijah Brown (2) looks to pass as North Carolina Tar Heels defensive lineman Leroy Jackson (91) defends in the first quarter at Kenan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

During his press conference last week, Jackson discussed several topics, including what he has been working on this offseason to improve his impact.

Jackson's Thoughts

Oct 28, 2023; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; A detailed view of a North Carolina Tar Heels helmet on the field before a game against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets at Bobby Dodd Stadium at Hyundai Field. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports | USA TODAY Sports via Reuters Connect

“Yeah I definitely think our conditioning got better because y’all can clearly see, we always talk about Mo [Coach Moses Cabrera]," Jackson said. "He definitely put us through it with everything he does. You’re gonna get something out of that if you put something into it yourself. So being able to buy into the program and just trust his process, that’s been good and definitely speed, strength and just all the aspects of what he does.”

Evaluating Jackson's Importance

Sep 13, 2019; Winston-Salem, NC, USA; A North Carolina Tar Heels helmet lays on the sidelines during the fourth quarter against the Wake Forest Demon Deacons at BB&T Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports | USA TODAY Sports

As noted, North Carolina's defense is the strongest unit on this roster for a second consecutive season. While the secondary underwent several changes, the defensive line remained somewhat intact.

We already know what we're getting off the edge with Melkart Abou Jaoude, who recorded 10.5 sacks in 2025, which was among the best in the ACC. On the other side, the Tar Heels would benefit if Jaylen Harvey develops into a perennial pass rusher. Meanwhile, the interior of the defensive line was underwhelming, especially with Jackson.

That said, the 6-foot-1, 290-pound defensive tackle can unlock this defensive line. If Jackson can hold up his end of the bargain and suffocate rushing lanes while opening up avenues for his fellow pass rushers, the Tar Heels could have one of the most well-rounded defensive lines in the ACC.

North Carolina's edge rushers can wreak havoc consistently, but if teams can run the football efficiently, that will lessen the impact of Abou Jaoude and Co. Jackson is the returning interior player who needs to make his presence known if this defensive line wants to reach its potential. Jackson is one of the most important assets on this roster, and because he plays on defense, his significance grows exponentially.

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