On Saturday, January 10th, former Ohio State tight end Jelani Thurman announced via Instagram that he has committed to play for the UNC Tar Heels next season.
Coming out of H.S., Thurman was the No. 5-ranked tight end in the nation. The Tar Heels had five scholarship players on their roster during the 2025 season. Four of them have since left via the Transfer Portal.
Over three seasons at Ohio State, Thurman appeared in 33 games, including a start against Missouri in the Cotton Bowl in 2023, and he ended up finishing that game with 13 catches, 144 yards, and two touchdowns. Last Season, he ended his campaign with seven catches for 84 yards.
Thurman stands at six-foot-six and weighs 250 pounds. He brings a physical presence; his size allows him to be a blocker in run schemes and also to stretch the seam in passing situations, giving UNC's offense more flexibility. The experience he has is crucial because the tight end position is one where college reps and an understanding of complex blocking and passing assignments matter. This isn't a fresh recruit; he's been in a Power 5 system.
He has two years of eligibility left that he can use while competing for Bill Belichick and the UNC football program.
More information on the Transfer Portal:
The Transfer Portal window is open from January 2nd through January 16th. Unlike recent seasons, this will be the only window. There will not be a second window in the spring.
Transfer Portal Tracker
Click here to keep up with all the latest news and updates on North Carolina's transfer portal additions and subtractions.