25-06-2025
Class of 2026 defensive lineman tabs UNC among finalists
The UNC football program is trying to further capitalize on its already-strong 2026 recruiting class, which ranks top 15 nationally across college football.
North Carolina already has several commitments in its 2026 class, highlighted by a trio of 4-stars in edge rusher Zavion Griffin-Haynes, quarterback Travis Burgess and defensive tackle Trashawn Ruffin. The Tar Heels typically land a ton of in-state talent, with a few North Carolina natives in their 2026 class, but Bill Belichick's arrival as head coach is also attracting out-of-state prospects.
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In less than two weeks, UNC could gain its 22nd commitment. On Tuesday, Class of 2026 3-star defensive lineman Manoah Fuapusa included the Tar Heels amongst his final three destinations.
Joining North Carolina amongst Fuapusa's finalists are Arizona and Colorado, a pair of former Pac-12 schools now in the Big 12.
According to Fuapusa's 247Sports recruiting profile, he is the 67th-ranked prospect from California – and 89th-ranked defensive line prospect nationally.
If Fuapusa commits to UNC, he'll be the seventh defensive line prospect to do so. The Tar Heels already have verbals from Zavion and Jayden Griffin-Haynes, Ashton Blatt, Jimmy-Phrisco Phillips, Ruffin and David Jackson.
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Though 2024 was another mediocre finish for North Carolina, its defensive line was undoubtedly a team strength, headlined by names like Kaimon Rucker and Beau Atkinson. This coming fall will be a different story for UNC, which replaces every 2024 starter.
Belichick added some big names to fill starting spots along his new program's D-line, with Penn State transfer Vilbert Smith and UConn transfer Pryce Yates headlining that important group.
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This article originally appeared on Tar Heels Wire: UNC football makes final 3 for 2026 defensive lineman Manoah Fuapusa
