By Pat Welter

Quarterback has been the biggest question facing Bill Belichick’s first season at North Carolina. Thursday we got one step closer to an answer. A day after Ryan Browne entered the transfer portal, South Alabama QB Gio Lopez announced on social media he had committed to the Tar Heels.

Excited and grateful, go Heels!🐏 @UNCFootball pic.twitter.com/1qpdXxsHXa

— Gio Lopez 7️⃣ (@lopezgio1) April 18, 2025

In an interview with the Madison Record Lopez said, “I didn’t enter the portal to not be a starter, I can assure you of that fact.”

Lopez is a 6 foot, 220 pound lefty with three years of eligibility remaining.

“[Bill Belichick and I] have had phone conversations, as he is very straightforward. He’s seen greatness before, and he knows what he wants and is looking for,” Lopez told the Madison record. “For me, to go to North Carolina would be a great opportunity, as Coach Belichick has so much to teach and offer any college football player. This could be a once-in-a-lifetime chance for me as the program has several ex-NFL coaches on staff who can make a difference.”

As a redshirt freshman last season Lopez put up 2,559 yards, 18 touchdowns, and threw just five interceptions. He also rushed for 465 yards and ran in seven scores.

Also competing for the UNC starting quarterback job is true freshman Bryce Baker. A source told WRAL that Purdue transfer Ryan Browne was “cut”. Max Johnson who suffered a season ending injury in last year’s opener is also on the roster.

Source: wralsportsfan.com