The 2025 NFL Draft was a significant chapter for North Carolina football—a program that has steadily ascended under head coach Mack Brown and continues to churn out pro-ready talent. From high-flying offensive playmakers to rugged defensive anchors, the Tar Heels were well-represented in this year’s draft, proving once again that Chapel Hill has become a consistent pipeline to the NFL.
As the seven-round spectacle unfolded in Detroit, NFL general managers turned their attention to UNC’s roster and the wealth of talent it offered. In total, several Tar Heels heard their names called across the three-day event, reinforcing the program’s reputation for developing both stars and valuable role players alike.
The first Tar Heel off the board was star wide receiver Devontez “Tez” Walker. A blend of speed, athleticism, and downfield threat, Walker had been a buzzworthy name in scouting circles for months. After transferring from Kent State and showcasing his talent in Carolina blue, Walker delivered a season that confirmed his status as one of the top receivers in the country. He racked up over 1,100 yards receiving with 11 touchdowns, dominating in big moments and showcasing the type of explosiveness that scouts covet. His ability to stretch the field, combined with improved route running and strong hands, made him a prime Day 2 target.
The Minnesota Vikings ultimately pulled the trigger in the second round, selecting Walker with the 54th overall pick. For a team looking to surround quarterback J.J. McCarthy with playmakers, Walker offers a vertical threat who can take the top off a defense and create mismatches. His fit in the NFC North could not be more intriguing, especially paired alongside Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison. Minnesota’s offensive scheme under head coach Kevin O’Connell emphasizes speed and space, and Walker’s blend of traits make him a dynamic addition to that room.
Walker’s selection was followed quickly by another Tar Heel standout: linebacker Cedric Gray. The heart and soul of North Carolina’s defense for the past two seasons, Gray has been a tackling machine and emotional leader for the program. He led the team in tackles each of the last two seasons and posted double-digit tackles in eight games during the 2024 campaign alone. A cerebral player with excellent instincts and sideline-to-sideline range, Gray projects as a high-floor contributor who can step into an NFL defense and make an impact from Day 1.
The New York Giants made Gray the 73rd overall pick, investing in a player who can help stabilize their linebacking corps. For a defense that struggled with consistency in the middle of the field, Gray’s presence brings reliability, communication, and leadership. While he may not be the flashiest pick of the draft, he represents exactly the type of steady, intelligent player that general managers value on Day 2.
Next to join the professional ranks was Drake Maye’s longtime protector, offensive lineman William Barnes. A sixth-year senior who brought versatility and experience to UNC’s front five, Barnes impressed teams during the pre-draft process with his measurables, work ethic, and ability to play both guard and tackle. While not as highly touted as some of his fellow linemen nationally, Barnes earned praise for his durability and ability to anchor against top-tier pass rushers in the ACC.
The Miami Dolphins selected Barnes in the fifth round with the 164th pick, looking to bolster their offensive line depth as they continue to build around Tua Tagovailoa and their explosive skill group. Barnes’ ability to swing between multiple positions will likely earn him a spot on the 53-man roster, and he may find himself competing for a starting role before long. His story is a testament to persistence and development, having worked his way from rotational lineman to dependable veteran presence.
One of the more heartwarming moments of the draft came when running back British Brooks was selected in the sixth round by the Indianapolis Colts. A fan favorite and locker room leader at UNC, Brooks battled back from a serious knee injury in 2022 to reclaim a significant role in 2024, showcasing physical running and surprising burst for a back of his size. Though not projected as a top-tier running back prospect, Brooks impressed scouts with his character, physicality, and special teams potential.
Indianapolis saw a perfect match. With Jonathan Taylor as the clear starter, Brooks fits the mold of a rotational power back who can contribute on kick coverage units and in short-yardage situations. He may have to fight for touches, but no one doubts his ability to contribute in whatever role he’s asked to fill. His journey from walk-on to NFL draftee captured hearts in Chapel Hill and now continues in Indianapolis.
UNC cornerback Alijah Huzzie rounded out the Tar Heels’ selections, getting picked in the seventh round by the Denver Broncos with the 245th overall pick. A standout transfer from East Tennessee State, Huzzie made an immediate impact in the Tar Heels’ secondary, leading the team in interceptions and serving as a key cog in the nickel and dime packages. Though slightly undersized for a traditional boundary corner, Huzzie makes up for it with toughness, football IQ, and a nose for the football.
For Denver, Huzzie adds needed depth to a secondary that has dealt with injuries and inconsistency. He’s expected to contribute immediately on special teams and will have the chance to grow into a larger role with time. His versatility to play slot corner and contribute in sub-packages gives him a real shot at carving out a niche in Sean Payton’s defense.
The 2025 NFL Draft ultimately showcased the depth and diversity of talent on UNC’s roster. From explosive wideouts to rugged linebackers, versatile linemen, and high-motor defensive backs, the Tar Heels proved that they can produce talent at every level of the field. More importantly, the draft validated the development process under Mack Brown, who has emphasized not only winning games but preparing players for life at the next level.
Beyond those selected, several other Tar Heels will now turn to free agency to begin their professional journeys. Tight end Bryson Nesbit, safety Giovanni Biggers, and defensive lineman Myles Murphy are all expected to draw interest from teams in the coming days. Nesbit, in particular, was viewed by some as a potential late-round steal but ultimately went undrafted. His combination of size and athleticism could make him one of the more sought-after undrafted free agents on the market.
For the players drafted, the celebration is just the beginning. Rookie minicamps, playbook installs, and the grind of training camp all await. Each will have to prove their worth on new teams, in new cities, facing competition from players just as hungry to secure a roster spot. But for now, they can bask in the joy of a lifelong dream realized.
The NFL Draft serves as a powerful reminder of how far these athletes have come—from high school fields in Georgia, Florida, the Carolinas, and beyond, to the hallowed turf of Kenan Memorial Stadium, and now to the professional ranks. Their names were called. Their stories continue.
And for Tar Heel fans, the 2025 NFL Draft offered more than a reason to cheer. It affirmed that Chapel Hill is producing more than just memorable Saturdays. It’s producing Sundays, too.
With each selection, the UNC football brand continues to grow—sending its sons to the league with pride, promise, and the powder blue still stitched into their hearts.