It has been a big week for the future of the Tar Heel quarterback position. 2025 4✮ QB commit Bryce Baker shined in the middle of the week in Los Angeles at the Elite 11 Finals, earning the prestigious honor of being named one of the top eleven quarterbacks in the country by week's end. That news has been followed by a reported commitment in the 2026 class from another in-state quarterback, who was on campus Thursday.
Per his head coach, Chad Grier, in a conversation with the Charlotte Observer, 2026 QB Zaid Lott committed to Mack Brown and the Tar Heels in a meeting with the head coach following the conclusion of the 7-on-7 tournament his team participated in that day. His commitment comes after he received an offer from the Tar Heel staff back in early April. He also held offers from NC State, Florida State and Boston College.
As a backup to 2024 4✮ QB Jadyn Davis last year, Lott completed 21 of his 26 passes for 331 yards and carried the ball six times for 19 yards and two touchdowns. He got the chance to start the Charlotte Latin game for this past season, completing 9 of his 11 passes for 118 yards and rushing for 19 yards and a touchdown on four carries. As a freshman, he completed 8 of his 16 passes for 115 yards and three touchdowns.
It’s hard to give a full evaluation of Lott with the limited film on him, but there are some things to like about his game with what is available to us. The arm strength is there, as is the fluid quick release that will allow him to get the ball out quickly. His running ability wasn’t showcased much with the varsity team, but he made some nice plays with his legs plenty at the JV level. Lott will be the full-time starter this year and Grier told the Charlotte Observer that he expects his stock to take off this year.
Lott has yet to confirm his decision via social media, but he would become the Tar Heels' first commitment in the class if he does.