Bill Belichick spent part of Thursday talking about two newcomers who could matter quickly for North Carolina’s defense, and the Tar Heels need that kind of immediate help.
After a rough stretch for the program, North Carolina still did important work in the transfer portal, adding pieces on both sides of the ball. Belichick zeroed in on the defensive side while speaking to the media, and he singled out a pair of incoming transfers who could step into real roles fast.
The first is Willie, who is expected to start at cornerback right away opposite Jaiden Patterson. Belichick pointed to Willie’s tackling and physical style as traits that should translate quickly. There are always questions when a player arrives in a new scheme, but Willie’s instinctive play stands out on tape.
Harvey brings a different profile. The former Penn State pass rusher is described as extremely raw, but his upside is hard to miss.
At 6-foot-2 and 246 pounds, he is undersized for the edge, yet he remains one of the more talented pass rushers on the depth chart. His production in his first two seasons was modest, but the belief is that he can develop into a star with more refinement and with Melkart Abou Jaoude working on the other side of the line.
As North Carolina moves into week two of training camp, Harvey and Donovan Hoilette Jr. are expected to compete for the starting job. Harvey’s role will depend on how that battle shakes out. With several accomplished players gone this offseason, the Tar Heels could use both newcomers to hit the ground running.
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