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North Carolina quarterback Ryan Browne announced on Wednesday that he is re-entering the transfer portal before ever playing a game for the Tar Heels.

Multiple outlets also reported that North Carolina’s sack leader, Beau Atkinson, is among a handful of other Tar Heels to enter the portal. Atkinson is expected to visit Georgia and Ohio State, according to On3 Media.

The others included offensive tackle Zach Rice, who played in 21 games in his three seasons with the Tar Heels. He is a former five-star recruit. Defensive back Zion Ferguson and brothers Cade Law and Crews Law, both linebackers, are also in the portal.

Browne transferred to North Carolina in December after two seasons in Purdue. In 2024, he threw for 532 yards and four touchdowns in eight games, including two starts.

New Tar Heels coach Bill Belichick reportedly is interested in luring South Alabama quarterback Gio Lopez, who played in 11 of the team’s 13 games as a redshirt freshman. Lopez threw for 2,559 yards and 25 touchdowns for the Jaguars.

Atkinson, an edge, had 7 1/2 sacks last season and 11 in his two years at North Carolina. He also finished with 35 tackles, including 12 tackles for a loss, last season.

–Field Level Media