The Bill Belichick-led North Carolina Tar Heels made their first big splash of the spring in the transfer portal by adding former South Alabama quarterback Gio Lopez to their quarterback room.
Lopez announced on social media that he will be headed to Chapel Hill after leading South Alabama to a 7-6 record in 2024 and throwing for 2,559 yards with 18 touchdown passes.
“Saying goodbye to South Alabama is one of the most difficult decisions of my life. I am incredibly grateful for my time here and for all those who made it such a special experience. It’s impossible to put into words what Coach Applewhite, Ms. Julie and the entire Apple-White family mean to me — I will always be thankful for their mentorship, support, and love,” Lopez posted to his social media accounts.
“South has helped me grow on and off the field and I leave with friendships and connections to last a lifetime. From my teammates and coaches to amazing people like my academic advisor Ms. Summer Stover — thank you for believing in me and for guiding me every step along the way. I’ll never forget some of our great moments on the field, like beating Troy and bringing the belt back to Mobile. And mostly I’ll never forget just walking into the facility every day and being around my guys.”
Lopez had entered the transfer portal earlier this week, On3 reported, and moves into a quarterback room that includes graduate senior Max Johnson and freshman four-star Bryce Baker.
“I’m excited for the next chapter and I know none of it would be possible without the people around me. I look forward to carrying the lessons I’ve learned here to take on new challenges and opportunities at the University of North Carolina,” Lopez wrote.
He also wrote: “Excited and grateful, go Heels” on X.
There will be plenty of eyes on the Tar Heels football program this season with Belichick at the helm for the first time in college football.
The legendary coach officially took the job in December to the surprise of everyone after winning six Super Bowls with the Patriots during a two-decade-plus tenure in New England that came to an end early in 2024.