Four-star DL Trashawn Ruffin commits to UNC from Texas A&M

Four-star defensive tackle Trashawn Ruffin has officially flipped his commitment from Texas A&M to North Carolina, marking a significant win for new Tar Heels head coach Bill Belichick. Ruffin, ranked No. 238 in the ESPN Junior 300 and the 12th-ranked prospect in North Carolina for the 2026 recruiting cycle, had been committed to the Aggies since October 2024. His decision follows a recent unofficial visit to North Carolina, where he met former All-American defenders and attended a basketball game against Duke. Ruffin praised Belichick and his staff for their focus on development and the positive atmosphere at the university. He is now the highest-rated recruit in North Carolina's 2026 class and joins quarterback Zaid Lott as another in-state prospect committed to the Tar Heels. Ruffin's commitment ends a quiet period in UNC's recruiting efforts and signifies a promising start for Belichick's tenure in college football.