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UNC Football's defensive line needs production from an entire new cast of talent

With only one returner among the unit, the team's newcomers have to step up to fill the void.

Campbell v North Carolina | Grant Halverson/GettyImages

When you look at the UNC football program's current roster, not many positional groups lost as much talent and depth as the team's defensive line unit.

During the 2024 season, the Tar Heels heavily relied on its upperclassmen along the defensive line to lead the way. Fast-forward to today, and most of those key contributors are off to greater ventures.

Kaimon Rucker, Jahvaree Ritzie, Des Evans, Kevin Hester Jr.