The Tar Heels could not afford to miss on local Rivals250 linebacker Payton Wilson. The Hillsborough (N.C.) Orange star has a ton of connections to North Carolina and had him very near the top of their recruiting board. Wilson announced his commitment to North Carolina at a ceremony at his school on Monday.

IN HIS OWN WORDS…

“It’s felt like home for the whole recruiting process and I just feel like it’s the place I can go and get some playing time,” Wilson said. “The future is bright for UNC and my recruiting class. I’m ready to go to UNC and see what we can do.

“Cayson Collins will be leaving when I’m coming in,” he said. “That’s an opportunity that’s open that I can work and fight for. Coach JP (John Papuchis) and Coach (Mike) Ekeler will make me the best player I can be.

“I feel like I can recruit other guys because that’s going to be my future team,” said Wilson. “I’m in touch with a lot of other guys UNC is recruiting. I feel like we could build this thing and have a great future.”

RIVALS’ REACTION

Wilson is a major addition to the North Carolina defense. He brings a level of athleticism and versatility to Papuchis’ defense that North Carolina hasn’t had in a while. Being a local recruit, it’s incredibly important that the Tar Heels were able to get Wilson’s commitment. Look for him to push for playing time as a freshman and eventually be a multi-year starter in Chapel Hill.