Gio Lopez Expected to Return to UNC in 2026 - But Will He Be QB1?
After a season where the North Carolina offense struggled to find any real rhythm, the Tar Heels are starting to get some clarity at the quarterback position heading into 2026. Gio Lopez, who battled through injuries and inconsistency in his first year in Chapel Hill, is expected to return to the program next season, according to reports.
That’s a significant development for a UNC team that’s undergoing major changes, including the departure of offensive coordinator Freddie Kitchens and the exit of veteran quarterback Max Johnson to the transfer portal. With Lopez staying put, the Tar Heels retain a talented-but still unproven-option under center as they try to reset an offense that never quite found its footing in 2025.
A Rocky First Year
Lopez came to North Carolina with some buzz after a productive stint at South Alabama, but his first season in Chapel Hill didn’t go as planned. He finished the year with 1,747 passing yards and 10 touchdowns-numbers that don’t jump off the page, especially when paired with the Tar Heels’ overall offensive struggles.
Injuries didn’t help. Lopez’s playing time was limited, and a rough-looking injury in the season finale only added more uncertainty to his status moving forward. The program hasn’t publicly addressed his health since then, but the expectation is that Lopez will be healthy enough to compete for the starting job in 2026.
Competition Coming?
Lopez’s return doesn’t necessarily mean he’s locked in as the starter. With Kitchens out and Bill Belichick now overseeing the program, it’s likely UNC will look to the transfer portal to bring in competition at quarterback. That’s the nature of today’s college football landscape-depth and competition are everything, and no job is guaranteed.
Still, Lopez brings a unique skill set to the table. He’s a left-handed passer with mobility and experience, and while his 2025 campaign didn’t meet expectations, there’s a foundation to build on. A full offseason in the system, paired with improved health and a revamped offensive staff, could give him a chance to take a meaningful step forward.
Sticking It Out
In an era where the transfer portal has become a revolving door, Lopez’s decision to stay at UNC says something. After a tough season, he could’ve easily looked for a fresh start elsewhere. Instead, he’s choosing to stay and fight for his spot-something that shouldn’t go unnoticed.
It’s no secret that Lopez took his fair share of criticism during the 2025 season. But he’s not backing down.
He’s betting on himself, on this program, and on the opportunity to help turn things around in Chapel Hill. And for a team searching for stability at the quarterback position, that kind of commitment matters.
The road ahead won’t be easy. There will be competition, questions about his health, and pressure to perform.
But with Lopez returning, UNC at least knows one thing: they’ve got a quarterback who’s not afraid to battle through adversity. Whether he ends up as QB1 or not, that kind of mindset is exactly what this program needs heading into a pivotal 2026 season.