For a program that lost it's leading receiver from a season ago (J.J. Jones) along with the trio of John Copenhaver, Bryson Nesbit and Omarion Hampton (who was third on the team in catches), you probably would think that the wide receiver depth chart had a ton of questions leading up to the 2025 season.
However, this group features a ton of depth, serving arguably as one of the team's deepest positional groups.
While roles are still uncertain, it's safe to say that the UNC football program's quarterbacks will have some capable receivers to throw the ball to.
Our 2025 UNC football positional preview breaks down the wide receiver position, one that could be a major difference maker for the Tar Heels this upcoming season.
What We Know
The veterans who led the way a season ago have departed for the NFL, as the group is essentially comprised of one senior and several inexperienced underclassmen.
Some of the names will sound familiar, but there are some new faces who expect to play a role in the Tar Heels offense. There will be playing time to earn, as the competition at this position will be fierce throughout training camp and beyond.
Key Players
Kobe Paysour
The lone senior among this positional group, Paysour has been a reliable target during his time with the UNC football program. However, injuries have derailed Paysour throughout his collegiate career, as North Carolina hopes a clean bill of health allows him to be an active part of the team's offense in what will be his final season in Chapel Hill.
2024 Stats (13 Games): Recorded 21 catches for 365 yards.
Chris Culliver
Tar Heel fans saw first-hand how explosive Culliver can be with the ball in his hands, as his 95-yard kickoff return for a score in the Fenway Bowl definitely opened some eyes. Heading into his junior season, Culliver is looking to be a more consistent presence in the passing game, as he put together some very strong results in his limited action during the 2024 campaign.
2024 Stats (13 Games): Recorded 6 catches for 135 yards and a touchdown.
Jordan Shipp
Shipp is an in-state product who also showed flashes of potential when he earned opportunities on offense. Extended playing time should be in his future, as the rising sophomore is a potential breakout candidate for Bill Belichick and the UNC football program.
2024 Stats (12 Games): Recorded 9 catches for 114 yards and a touchdown.
Aziah Johnson
A transfer from Michigan State, Aziah Johnson is a guy that the Tar Heels look to utilize as a true offensive weapon.
Considering he averaged over 17 yards per catch a season ago, there's no doubt that Johnson is very capable of breaking off big-time plays any time the ball is in his hands. The 6-foot, 175-pound sophomore could end up being the gem among this positional group, serving as a reliable playmaker who can use his speed to make a significant impact.
2024 Stats (at Michigan State): Recorded 16 catches for 276 yards and two touchdowns.
Outlook
This is a positional depth chart that UNC football fans should be excited to see in action. While this group doesn't possess your traditional type of No. 1 receiver, there are a handful of guys who can play major roles in the offense throughout the 2025 season.
Paysour's health is important, as the Tar Heels need his veteran presence on the field. Look for returners, such as Culliver and Shipp, to help contribute at a much higher level than they did last season, while some added reinforcements will look to rise up the depth chart.
Depth Chart
Projected Starters:
WR X: Jordan Shipp/Chris Culliver
WR Z: Kobe Paysour
WR SL: Aziah Johnson
Backups:
WR X: Nathan Leacock
WR Z: Paul Billups/Alex Taylor
WR SL: Vari Green/Jason Robinson