UNC Football: 2022 Running back position preview

UNC football is looking for a new lead back for the 2021 season. British Brooks and D.J. Jones are the two main contenders. Last season UNC had a disappointing season with Sam Howell and Ty Chandler. The transfer from Tennessee finished third in the Atlantic Coastal Conference for rushing yards and touchdowns. The team plays a conservative style with a lot of down the field rushing. Coach Mack Brown likes to use multiple backs. UNC finished the season ranked 10th. Javonte Williams and Michael Carter were drafted to the NFL. They will be replaced by Brooks, Jones and another running back.

D.J. Jones is a junior and is expected to play a similar role to Michael Carter this season. Last season, Jones carried the ball 60 times for 253 rushing yards and 55 receiving yards.

Elijah Green is a redshirt sophomore running back for UNC. He has 71 carries for 318 yards and 1 touchdown. Last season he played in four games, carrying the ball 11 times for 39 rushing yards.

UNC is known for their run first throw deep later attack. Last season UNC barely made it to a bowl game. The running back committee will have to be able to split the work load properly if UNC wants to compete this season. Incoming freshman George Pettaway is ranked as the 107th best player in the nation and the 4th ranked player from Virginia.

UNC needs to keep some prospects in the pipeline at running back. Brooks is on his final year of eligibility and the unknown of Jones, Green, and Pettaway's futures. UNC could be looking at a situation in 2024 or 2025 where they need a replacement.