Denver Broncos running back Javonte Williams (33) leaps over Houston Texans safety Jonathan Owens (36) during the second quarter at M-Power Field at Mile High in Denver, Colorado, USA on September 18, 2022. Credit: Ron Chenoy – USA Today Sports
With the start of the NFL season fast approaching, fantasy football drafts will be taking place in the two weeks leading up to the start of the season.
Over the years, the UNC football department has produced many talented players who have gone on to play in the NFL, from offensive leaders to defensive powerhouses.
Here are 10 former Tar Heels players who could be worthy of a draft spot or a roster spot on your fantasy team this year.
Bills quarterback Mitch Trubisky throws a pass into the end zone during a route drill.
I know we’re taking a long view here in terms of value, but when Trubisky got to Buffalo, he immediately became one of the NFL’s best handcuffs for a Josh Allen-led offense.
His value will only be determined by Allen’s health, but if he is sidelined with an injury, Trubisky would be a great addition on waivers.
Paradise, Nevada, USA, December 10, 2023. Minnesota Vikings running back Ty Chandler (32) gains yards during the fourth quarter against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium. Credit: Steven R. Silvani – USA Today Sports
With Alexander Mattison out, the only thing standing between Ty Chandler and meaningful fantasy time is Aaron Jones, an aging, battered running back who has been injury-prone throughout his career.
Last year, Chandler had 461 yards on 102 carries, averaging 4.5 yards per carry.
Arizona Cardinals running back Michael Carter (22) runs with the ball during the third quarter against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field on December 31, 2023 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA. Credit: Bill Streacher – USA Today Sports
Michael Carter has spent time on the New York Jets bench since his time at North Carolina and was traded to the Arizona Cardinals last season.
His best season in the NFL came with the Cardinals, where he averaged 6.8 yards per carry.
Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Howell (6) throws a pass against the Los Angeles Chargers during the first quarter at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, USA on August 10, 2024. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Hui – USA TODAY Sports
When Sam Howell was selected by the Washington Commanders, I thought he would be the team’s franchise quarterback, but in the end, his time with the team was short-lived.
This season, he will serve as the backup to Geno Smith in Seattle, and while Smith isn’t particularly injury-prone, Howell is worth keeping an eye on because he’s one of the best backups in the league.
Baltimore, Maryland, USA, August 9, 2024. Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Devonte’s Walker (81) and teammates walk onto the field before the start of a preseason game against the Philadelphia Eagles at M&T Bank Stadium. Credit: Tommy Gilligan – USA Today Sports
Devonte’s Walker was one of the standout players for the Tar Heels last year, and although he sat out most of the season due to eligibility issues, he was dynamic when he was on the field.
He was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens and is in the process this offseason, trying to not only make the roster but also take the No. 2 spot behind Zay Flowers.
Bills wide receiver Mack Hollins prepares to receive a pass.
Mack Hollins had the best year of his career with the Las Vegas Raiders in 2022, catching 57 receptions for 690 yards, before he was traded to Atlanta that offseason with a mediocre quarterback who wouldn’t even give Kyle Pitts a target.
Now Hollins is on the Buffalo Bills with arguably the best quarterback in the league and few receivers to contend with.
Diami Brown, WR, Washington Commanders
Washington Commanders wide receiver Diami Brown (2) catches a pass and runs during the third day of the Commanders training camp at the Ortho Virginia Training Center on July 28, 2023 in Ashburn, Virginia, USA. Credit: Jeff Burke – USA Today Sports
Another receiver vying for the team’s WR2 spot and fantasy importance is Diami Brown. Terry McLaurin is the clear No. 1, but Brown is battling Jahan Dotson for the next spot in the roster in the new scheme.
Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Josh Downs (1) conducts a drill during Colts camp at Grand Park in Westfield Indiana, Sunday, Aug. 4, 2024.
Josh Downs and the Indianapolis Colts have done amazing things at the quarterback position over the past two years, and the team has turned things around since drafting Anthony Richardson, who is in his second year and despite injuries, is the best thing for Downs and his chances in the NFL.
New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye (10) stands at center during the first half of a game against the Carolina Panthers at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA on August 8, 2024. Credit: Eric Cagna – USA TODAY Sports
You don’t pick a guy with the No. 3 pick in the NFL unless you intend for him to be your franchise quarterback, and I’m tired of hearing rumors that Jacoby Brissett will be that guy for New England this year. He might be the starter in Week 1, but Maye will be the main guy from here on out. He could be especially valuable in a superflex situation.
Denver Broncos running back Javonte Williams (33) carries the ball during the second half of a game against the Houston Texans at Empower Field at Mile High, Denver, Colorado, USA, September 18, 2022. Credit: Ron Chenoy – USA Today Sports
Despite injuries, Javonte Williams has been one of the best offensive players to come out of Chapel Hill in the last decade, and he’s looking to get back on the ground with the Denver Broncos a year removed from a gruesome knee injury.
He will be the UNC football player selected highest in your fantasy drafts.
This article originally appeared on Tar Heels Wire: 10 Former Tar Heels Players Worth Owning in Fantasy Football
