Big-time defensive talent Jayson Jenkins is shaking up the college football scene as he weighs his future options, with powerhouse programs UNC and NC State both battling for his signature. The 6-foot-6, 281-pound defensive lineman, a former three-year Tennessee Volunteer, has created major buzz in the transfer portal after entering the mix last Thursday.
Jenkins, a New Jersey native and a former three-star recruit, has been turning heads after recording nine tackles, two sacks, and one forced fumble in 2024. With two years of eligibility left, he’s a serious asset, ranked No. 120 overall and No. 15 among edge rushers in the 247Sports Transfer Rankings.
He’s set to visit the UNC Tar Heels on January 3 and NC State’s Wolfpack the following day, with other schools like Florida State and Texas Tech also in the running. While UNC’s Bill Belichick-led staff is making waves with a top-tier transfer class ranked No. 27, NC State’s aggressive push led by Dave Doeren is sure to make this a hard-fought decision for Jenkins.
With both UNC and NC State eager to add to their already solid defensive rosters, all eyes will be on Jenkins as he makes his choice. The future of this 3-star force is up in the air, but one thing’s for sure—he’s about to bring the heat wherever he lands.
