In a significant development for the University of North Carolina's (UNC) football program, junior defensive lineman David Jackson III from Our Lady of Good Counsel High School in Maryland has pledged his commitment to the Tar Heels. The 6-foot-2, 300-pound athlete made his decision after touring the UNC campus and attending a basketball game against Duke. Ranked as the 87th best defensive lineman in the 2026 class by 247Sports and 19th in Maryland, Jackson brings valuable talent to UNC’s roster. His commitment marks the eighth recruit for the 2026 class and the first addition on the defensive line.

Details of Jackson's Visit and Commitment

During the golden hues of early spring, David Jackson III embarked on an unforgettable journey to Chapel Hill, where he immersed himself in the vibrant atmosphere of the UNC community. His visit included a seat at the Dean E. Smith Center, where he witnessed the intense rivalry between UNC and Duke basketball teams. Although the Tar Heels fell short with an 82-69 loss, the experience left an indelible mark on Jackson.

By Sunday morning, Jackson had made up his mind. Influenced by the dynamic environment and the promise of a robust academic and athletic future, he committed to Coach Bill Belichick and the Tar Heels. Jackson, who boasts offers from numerous prestigious institutions, including Toledo, Marshall, Virginia Tech, Syracuse, Elon, Akron, Delaware, Liberty, Tulane, Buffalo, South Florida, and Miami, chose UNC for its holistic appeal.

Jackson’s commitment adds depth to UNC’s 2026 recruiting class, now ranked 25th nationally and 7th in the ACC. As the first defensive lineman to join this cohort, he is set to return to Chapel Hill for an official visit during the third weekend of June.

From a journalist's perspective, Jackson’s commitment underscores the growing momentum of UNC’s football program under Belichick’s leadership. It highlights the university’s ability to attract top-tier athletes who value both academic excellence and competitive athletics. This move not only bolsters the team’s defensive lineup but also signals a promising future for the Tar Heels in the coming years. Readers can look forward to witnessing Jackson’s growth and contributions to the UNC legacy.