The UNC football program's plan to address their need at the tight end position last offseason didn't pan out so well.
After losing both John Copenhaver and Bryson Nesbit to the NFL, the Tar Heels, who underwent a complete staff overhaul, needed to rely on the transfer portal to help fill the void left by the departure of the tight end duo that was so productive during their time at North Carolina.
This year isn't much different, as the Tar Heels have a gaping hole at the tight end spot.
Last season, the UNC football program carried five scholarship tight ends on its roster. Four have departed via the transfer portal thus far this offseason.
This is where former Colorado State tight end Jaxxon Warren comes into play.
Jaxxon Warren commits to North Carolina
Late on Sunday night, Pete Thamel reported that Warren committed to the UNC football program. This came following his official visit to campus this weekend.
Per an ESPN source, Jaxxon Warren has committed to North Carolina. He visited there this weekend. https://t.co/QXfC7vg0Zu
— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) January 5, 2026
More on Jaxxon Warren
A 6-foot-7, 255-pound presence, Warren's college career has been hampered by injuries. He started at Navarro JC, catching 17 passes for 308 yards and two touchdowns during the 2023 season, and ended up transferring to Colorado State. He missed the entire 2024 due to surgeries on both shoulders, and was limited to just two games this past season due to injury.
When he was on the field, he was rather productive, recording seven catches for 95 yards and a touchdown in limited action.
What this means for UNC
Yes, this is a gamble for North Carolina, given Warren's injury history.
However, there are two things to consider:
For starters, this is a low-risk, high-reward type of move. If he's healthy, Warren provides a physical presence who can definitely make a mark on North Carolina's offense.
Additionally, Warren won't be the only tight end brought in this offseason, as this is yet another position group that needs a complete overhaul.
If Warren can stay healthy, this could be a sneaky addition for the UNC football program, as his play making abilities can certainly help rejuvenate the tight end position group, once again making them a steady contributor in the passing game.