Heel Tough Blog: 2026 3✮ DL Places UNC in Top 10, Sets OV

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The Tar Heels have become accustomed to landing in a top schools list or setting an official visit with a prospect just about each and every day and they did both on Tuesday evening with one of their defensive line targets.

As he posted on social media, 2026 3✮ DL Daryl Campbell is down to ten schools in the race for his services. Those remaining in the hunt are UNC, California, Colorado State, Houston, Kansas, Oklahoma State, Sam Houston State, SMU, Texas Tech and Vanderbilt.

Campbell, who just took an unofficial visit to Chapel Hill a couple of weekends ago, has also revealed his official visit schedule to 247Sports. His return trip to Chapel Hill is scheduled for June 16th-18th, a trip that is sandwiched in the middle of a loaded itinerary. California (April 3rd), Oklahoma State (April 25th), Vanderbilt (May 29th), Houston (June 5th), Texas Tech (June 13th) and SMU (June 20th) are all getting official visits as well from him throughout the next few months before he makes his decision.

Campbell, the No. 552 overall prospect and No. 58 defensive lineman in the 2026 class according to 247Sports Composite Player Rankings, hails from Paetow High School in Katy, TX. In 2024, he finished with second team All-District honors for his performance which opened the door for his recruitment to take off.

In terms of the Tar Heels chances in this recruitment, it feels like they do have a pretty good shot. The local teams will be tough to stave off, but it feels like there is a strong connection that the Tar Heels could build upon with that June visit.