Profile of Power Echols for the UNC football team in 2024.
Although the UNC football program has struggled with a poor defense in recent years, its linebacking corps has consistently performed well.
Last year, North Carolina benefited from having Cedric Gray, a standout tackler who led the Tar Heels in tackles, finished second in the ACC, and ranked 18th nationally with 121 tackles. Gray’s impressive performance earned him a spot in the NFL Draft, where he was selected in the fourth round by the Tennessee Titans.
When Gray wasn’t making tackles, UNC relied on Kaimon Rucker, who excelled in sacking quarterbacks and pushing back the opposition. Rucker led the team with 8.5 sacks and 15 tackles for loss and will return this season as the likely defensive leader.
One player who hasn’t been mentioned yet is Power Echols, who will step into the starting middle linebacker position previously held by Gray. Echols, an in-state linebacker from Charlotte, had a solid 2023 season that was somewhat overshadowed by Gray and Rucker’s performances. With Gray gone, Tar Heel Nation will have the opportunity to see Echols’ talent shine.
Echols is UNC’s leading returning tackler, having recorded 102 tackles last season. This level of production is worthy of NFL Draft consideration, but Echols believes he can become an even better player.
