UNC football program looking to keep in-state connection together

Back at the end of June, the UNC football program earned a commitment from Class of 2025 quarterback prospect Bryce Baker.

Baker, an East Forsyth High School standout, is considered a top-10 prospect within the state of North Carolina. As the Tar Heels strive to keep the state's best talents home, they've taken a step towards potentially bringing in a player that Baker is very familiar with.

As announced on social media, Class of 2026 wide receiver Jaire Richburg has received an offer from the UNC football program. In his social media post, Richburg noted the potential for him to play with his current quarterback at the next level if he chooses to make his way to Chapel Hill.

Richburg is a year younger than Baker, but the hype is starting to build around the 6-foot-3, 180-pound wide receiver. Back in October, Richburg earned his first offer from Boston College, as offers from the following programs have come in ever since: Duke, Appalachian State, NC State, Wake Forest, Louisville, Maryland, Penn State, West Virginia, Virginia Tech, Liberty, and Temple.

As a sophomore, Richburg became a very reliable target for Baker to work with. Richburg recorded 42 receptions for 589 yards and nine touchdowns, helping East Forsyth finish the 2023 season with a 10-2 record.

Now that they are officially in the mix, the UNC football program may have an advantage in Richburg's recruitment. Given the connection and bond that he's already formed with Baker, having the opportunity to compete with him at the Division I level may be too enticing to pass up.

With another year together at the high school ranks, it would be really cool to see these two in-state products re-connect in Chapel Hill over the next few years.