Bill Belichick’s first true recruiting class at North Carolina is already making waves by being in the top 20, and a key part of that excitement is C.J. Sadler from Detroit’s Cass Tech. At 5’10 and 185 pounds, this versatile player is a true three-phase threat who will make an impact on offense, defense, and special teams right from the start. His commitment adds serious firepower to the Tar Heels’ 2026 class, which has shot up the national rankings and is shaping into one of the most dynamic groups in college football.

What makes this athlete’s journey even more intriguing is the clear parallel to a legendary NFL role model in Bill Belichick’s history. Troy Brown, a former New England Patriots star, was known for his ability to excel as a return man, receiver, and cornerback, and even as an emergency quarterback at times. This Tar Heel recruit fits right into that mold. Moreover, he has come to the Tar Heels on the promise of playing on both sides of the ball.

Allen Trieu of 247Sports talked about his UNC commitment. He said, “The athlete part of it was a sticking point in his recruitment as he wanted the opportunity to compete in all three phases of the game, special teams, defense, and offense as a receiver. What’s interesting to note here is Bill Belichick had a player like this with the New England Patriots in Troy Brown, who was a return man, receiver, and then played cornerback”. Belichick plans to use Sadler just like he used Super Bowl winner Troy Brown, first as a receiver and return specialist, then eventually on defense. Moreover, Sadler has quarterbacked at Cass Tech, played WR and DB, and earned all-state honors while leading Cass Tech to its first state title in nearly a decade. Those are the kinds of achievements most recruits dream about.

There’s more, as Trieu explains, “North Carolina’s plan for him, which will start him out as a receiver and return man, then transition to defense, was a big reason for him joining the class.” Sadler could’ve gone to Colorado or Maryland; both programs pushed hard. Michigan was there, too, but they never managed to bring him on an official visit. Instead, he’s coming to Chapel Hill with some serious credentials. He’s the 2024 MaxPreps Michigan High School Football Player of the Year, number one in the state for several stats, and proof that his all-around skill set is backed up on the field. There aren’t many D1 recruits who can truly play on both sides of the ball, and UNC’s willingness to let Sadler thrive shows just how far Belichick’s stamp has spread.

With CJ Sadler officially in the fold, UNC’s 2026 class looks built for real championship runs. This is a lineup packed with versatile athletes who can shift and excel wherever they’re needed most, just like Bill Belichick’s old Patriots rosters. If you’re a Tar Heels fan, now’s the time to believe that the recruiting momentum is real, and Belichick’s touch is rapidly changing what’s possible in Chapel Hill.

Why North Carolina was an easy choice

CJ Sadler’s decision to join North Carolina came after careful consideration, with the Tar Heels gradually becoming his top choice following his official visit to Chapel Hill in June. Head coach Bill Belichick’s impressive track record and the strategic plan UNC designed for him made a strong impression. As Sadler shared, “Really, I chose UNC because of the development I’d get and Coach Belichick coming in and the style of play. Their plan for me on defense, offense, and the culture there. I’m getting to play for one of the greatest coaches in the world. The coaches and people there are not just going to develop me, but they treat me like family. I know they want me and want to use me on both sides of the ball.” His enthusiasm is clear, knowing he will contribute to both defense and offense, embracing the kind of versatile role that Belichick champions.

Sadler admits that North Carolina did not immediately stand out when he received the offer. He stayed open-minded and let the process guide him. “Once I got there, honestly, I knew. To be honest, North Carolina was one of the last schools to really recruit me for real. I went down there, and it surprised me a bit. I love it down there.” This openness allowed UNC to showcase its commitment to his potential and its welcoming campus environment. Meeting the coaches and seeing the personalized development plan convinced Sadler he had found the right fit.

Having started his recruiting journey as early as middle school, Sadler remains grounded despite the attention and accolades. He said, “Just so much goes through my mind: staying myself for real and not getting big-headed, staying humble, staying motivated, and this is what I’ve been working for.” His humility and dedication shape his outlook as he prepares to take his talents to Chapel Hill and further develop his skills for the future.