Tar Heels Make Their Mark: Three UNC Standouts Selected in 2025 MLS SuperDraft
CHAPEL HILL, N.C. - The MLS SuperDraft spotlight shined bright on Chapel Hill this week, as three North Carolina Tar Heels heard their names called on draft day - a testament to the program’s continued pipeline of pro-ready talent. Jack Sandmeyer, Dylan Kropp, and Luca Nikolai all earned selections, matching last year’s total and marking the first time since 2015 that UNC has landed two players in the first round.
Let’s break down what makes each of these players a compelling pick - and why their next chapters in MLS are worth watching.
Jack Sandmeyer - No. 18 Overall to Chicago Fire
Sandmeyer may have only spent one season in Carolina blue, but he made every minute count - literally. The central defensive midfielder started all 20 matches and logged a staggering 1,809 minutes out of a possible 1,840. That’s the kind of durability and consistency coaches dream about.
His impact went beyond just being available. Sandmeyer brought structure and bite to the midfield, anchoring a Tar Heels defense that ranked 26th nationally in goals against average. He chipped in with two goals and helped the team post eight clean sheets, earning third-team All-ACC honors in the process.
For Chicago Fire, this is a pick that brings immediate defensive IQ and positional discipline. Sandmeyer’s ability to read the game, break up attacks, and distribute cleanly under pressure makes him a natural fit for a team looking to solidify its midfield spine.
Dylan Kropp - No. 25 Overall to Real Salt Lake
Kropp’s selection in the first round is no surprise to those who followed his college career. A second-team All-ACC and All-South Region honoree, Kropp was the heartbeat of UNC’s backline. Like Sandmeyer, he started all 20 matches and played 1,825 minutes - just 15 shy of a perfect season.
He brought leadership and composure to the defensive unit, helping the Heels notch eight shutouts and finish in the top 30 nationally in defensive metrics. Kropp even found the net once, showing he can be a threat on set pieces or in transition.
Real Salt Lake is getting a defender who doesn’t just defend - he organizes, he communicates, and he competes. Kropp’s combination of physicality and tactical awareness should translate well to the next level.
Luca Nikolai - No. 87 Overall to New York City FC
Nikolai might’ve had to wait a little longer to hear his name, but don’t let the draft position fool you - this is a player with serious upside. One of the most versatile two-way players in the country, Nikolai started all 20 games, splitting time between defense and midfield. He finished the season with three goals and seven assists, leading the team in total points (13) and shots (55).
He was named second-team All-ACC and third-team All-South Region, recognition that reflects his impact on both ends of the pitch. Whether he was driving play forward or tracking back to disrupt opposing attacks, Nikolai brought energy and intelligence to every phase of the game.
For NYCFC, this is a value pick with long-term potential. Nikolai’s versatility, work rate, and offensive instincts could make him a dynamic piece in a system that values fluid, possession-based soccer.
A Strong Statement from Chapel Hill
With three players drafted - two of them in the first round - North Carolina continues to show why it’s a breeding ground for MLS talent. Each of these players brought something unique to the Tar Heels this season, and now they’ll get the chance to do the same on the professional stage.
From Sandmeyer’s midfield control, to Kropp’s defensive leadership, to Nikolai’s all-around versatility, this trio didn’t just help UNC compete - they helped define the team’s identity in 2025.
Now, it’s time to see how they shape their next chapters in MLS.