During his visit to North Carolina for their Junior Day, 2017 Rivals250 defensive end Jake Lawler announced his commitment to the Tar Heels. The Charlotte (N.C.) South Mecklenburg star was looking heavily at the in-state schools throughout his recruitment.

"I've been thinking about it for a little bit," said the 6-foot-3, 225-pound Lawler. "It was the place for me. Coach Chizik pulled us aside and he just told us we were their No. 1 priority. I wanted to go somewhere I'm need not just wanted. Deep down I always knew that this was the place for me."

Lawler is the fifth commitment for North Carolina's 2017 recruiting class and their fourth four-star prospect. He is also North Carolina's third in-state commitment of the 2017 class.