Marquis Bryant’s recruitment began early when he was a freshman, and the 5-foot-11, 185-pound safety out of Rolesville (N.C.) quickly became one of the most coveted prospects in the 2027 class. Ranked No. 169 nationally in the Rivals Industry Ranking, Bryant entered the fall with major offers and heavy attention from national powers. On Dec. […]
Marquis Bryant’s recruitment began early when he was a freshman, and the 5-foot-11, 185-pound safety out of Rolesville (N.C.) quickly became one of the most coveted prospects in the 2027 class. Ranked No. 169 nationally in the Rivals Industry Ranking, Bryant entered the fall with major offers and heavy attention from national powers.
On Dec. 16, his mother’s birthday, he delivered what he called “a present” by announcing his commitment to North Carolina over Clemson, Nebraska, Notre Dame, Ohio State and Tennessee.
“North Carolina has always felt like home to me,” Bryant told Rivals. “I’m ready to call it home publicly now.”
Bryant has been to Chapel Hill six times, and UNC only strengthened its position after the arrival of the new staff led by head coach Bill Belichick.
“Since the new staff came in with Coach Belichick, they have been recruiting me since he got there. They have recruited me hard, and I know I am high on their board. Coach Mondo Hawkins and some other coaches have gotten to know me. The staff is great. I love Mondo’s coaching style — I’ve seen him in practice and he is always positive. He pushes his guys and coaches his players up.”
Bryant fully believes in the direction the program is headed under Belichick.
“Belichick is building a dynasty at North Carolina,” he said. “Chapel Hill will be a portal to the NFL. He has a great plan, a great staff, and they will be about developing players. Coach Belichick is a laid-back guy, but he is all about business. He wants North Carolina to win.”
Bryant chose UNC for more than Belichick
Staying home was another major factor.
“To stay home and go to North Carolina, it is a great feeling,” Bryant said. “It will be putting it on for my hometown.”
Ultimately, the relationships and trust he built in Chapel Hill made the difference.
“What ended up putting North Carolina on top for me was the relationships I have with the staff,” he said. “How they treat me and my family is great. The development under Belichick and the staff was a big factor. Staying home was big too. You have to love who loves you, and I know UNC loves me.”
After weighing his options, Bryant said the decision became clear.
“I sat back and thought about it — North Carolina was just the right place for me.”
Category: General Sports
