UNC Football: The five most important players for the 2023 season

Dec 3, 2022; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels quarterback Drake Maye (10) celebrates with running back Elijah Green (21) and tight end Bryson Nesbit (18) after a touchdown during the first quarter of the ACC Championship game against the Clemson Tigers at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports /

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Our staff breaks down their list of which five UNC football players are most important for the team’s success during the 2023 season.

It’s a big season ahead for the UNC football program as they look to avenge a rather disappointing end to the 2022 season.

As we inch closer to the start of the college football regular season, the Tar Heels are preparing for their opening week matchup with South Carolina. Before we get to that point, Mack Brown and his staff will determine which players will rise up the depth chart to earn the first crack at seeing extended playing time this season.

Of course, football is not a one-man sport (although it helps to have a quarterback like Drake Maye!). However, some players hold more importance in regard to the team’s potential success. Whether they play quarterback or are on the special teams unit, some players just stand out more, as their role could help lead the program to tons of success during the upcoming season.

We asked our Keeping It Heel team to rank their top five most important UNC football players for the 2023 season. Here’s their list, starting with staff writer Jordan Falls.

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