With Bill Belichick arriving as the new head coach of the North Carolina Tar Heels, the Chapel Hill program is looking to make a major shift and become a serious contender in the NCAAF. The Transfer Portal remains active, allowing UNC to add a new player to their roster from the Penn State Nittany Lions.
The latest news reports the arrival of talented defensive end Smith Vilber, who, through his social media, bid farewell to the Nittany Lions and announced his decision to join North Carolina for the upcoming season.
At the end of February, the player had announced his entry into the Transfer Portal, indicating that he would be seeking new opportunities for the upcoming season and that he would no longer be under the command of James Franklin.
Just a few days ago, he announced his decision to join Bill Belichick’s team through a heartfelt statement posted on his official X (formerly Twitter) account, @Smithvilbert2.
Vilbert’s heartfelt message
Once his decision to join UNC was confirmed, closing a long chapter at Penn State, Vilbert took to his social media to send a heartfelt message to all those who have supported him throughout the last few years in College Football.
“PSU Family I just wanted to say I appreciate all the love and support over the years that I’ve been apart of this program. I’ve met some great individuals that i can honestly call my brother’s, and some great coaches. I am glad I can officially say I am a PSU graduate/alumni thank you! Last ride best ride!! – The HaitianSention is coming. LFG #LetsGoHeels,” the DE firmly stated.
The DE’s latest standout season
Although Vilbert had seasons where he perhaps saw limited playing time or was sidelined due to injuries, his 2024 campaign with the Nittany Lions was up to the task, as he became a key piece in James Franklin’s system.
His final year playing at Penn State had impressive numbers, playing in 16 games, where he recorded a career-high 12 tackles, 4.0 tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, two forced fumbles, a pass breakup, and a pass defended.
Throughout his entire College Football career, the DE has recorded 35 tackles, 8.0 tackles for loss, and 4.5 sacks. He has also notched two forced fumbles, a pass breakup, and a pass defended.