Jelani Thurman, a first‑year tight end for the University of North Carolina Tar Heels, has been selected to the John Mackey Award Preseason Watch List, the honor that annually identifies the nation’s most promising collegiate tight ends. The list, released this week, includes 43 players from across the country, seven of whom compete in the Atlantic Coast Conference, underscoring the conference’s depth at the position.
Thurman’s journey to Chapel Hill began in Ohio, where he was a key contributor to the Buckeyes’ 2025 national championship run. Though he appeared in only five games as a true freshman, he logged seven receptions for 84 yards and a touchdown, and in his final season at Ohio State he posted a 82.9 grade from Pro Football Focus, ranking seventh on the offense overall.
His redshirt freshman campaign featured a standout performance against Indiana, where he recorded four catches for 42 yards and a score, showcasing the blend of size, route running and blocking that has drawn praise from coaches and analysts alike.
A Milestone for the Tar Heels
The Mackey Award, established in 2000 by the Nassau County Sports Commission, celebrates the legacy of Pro Football Hall of Famer John Mackey, whose leadership and excellence set a benchmark for tight ends. For UNC, the recognition marks a significant milestone as the program looks to build on recent successes.
The Tar Heels are slated to open the 2026 season on August 29 in Dublin, Ireland, facing TCU in the Aer Lingus College Football Classic. The overseas kickoff not only adds a global showcase to the schedule but also provides a unique environment for Thurman to make his mark early in the year.