Position:** Edge rusher (defensive end)
* **Size & Recruiting Rank:** At 6′6″ and approximately 235 lb, he’s a consensus ★★★★ prospect—one of the Top 16 players in North Carolina and around the top 30 edge rushers nationally ([ncfootballnews.com][1]).
* **Recruiting Journey:** Initially committed under Mack Brown last fall, then reopened his recruitment when coaching changed. Following official visits to Michigan, Florida State, Nebraska, and a re-visitation to UNC, he reaffirmed his commitment ([ncfootballnews.com][1]).
* **Senior Year Highlights:** Tallied 48 tackles, 12.5 TFLs, and 20 QB hurries at Rolesville; helped lead the team to a 14‑2 record and a 4A state championship game appearance ([ncfootballnews.com][1]).
* **Jayden Griffin‑Haynes**
* **Position:** Linebacker (also skilled at WR and DB)
* **Size & Recruiting Rank:** Around 6′3″, 200 lb; a ★★★ recruit and among the Top 34 players in North Carolina ([ncfootballnews.com][1]).
* **Position Shift:** Transitioned from multiple skill roles to linebacker in 2024, racking up 107 tackles, six sacks, 10 QB hurries, and two forced fumbles ([ncfootballnews.com][1]).
* **Recruitment:** Offered and pursued by UNC under the previous staff; finalists also included NC State and Florida State. After an official visit with his brother, he committed ([ncfootballnews.com][1]).
—
## Why UNC Getting Both Is a Big Win
1. **Elite In‑State Talent Combo**
* UNC now has four in‑state commitments in the 2026 class, with Jayden and Zavion leading the pack ([ncfootballnews.com][1]).
* They add high-level versatility and promise to a recruiting class rated **No. 15 nationally** (No. 4 in the ACC) by 247Sports ([ncfootballnews.com][1]).
2. **Immediate Impact Potential**
* **Zavion’s** size and edge‑rushing ability could make an immediate push for playing time, especially in obvious passing downs.
* **Jayden’s** adaptability—already showing linebacker skills his senior year—could bolster depth and offer options in sub‑packages.
3. **Proven Chemistry**
* These aren’t just brothers—they’re teammates familiar with each other’s games, making for natural on‑field synergy. Their joint announcement underscored their preference to stay together: a testament to their bond ([reddit.com][2], [ncfootballnews.com][1]).
4. **Smart Recruits, Coachable Mindsets**
* Coaches praise their versatility and football IQ: Zavion is learning to harness his physical stature with technique, while Jayden is praised for his cerebral, bendy linebacker play .
—
## Quote That Speaks Volumes
From Rolesville coach Rainer Rackley on Jayden:
> “Being able to be so cerebral back there … understanding how to read the reads has helped him navigate that position.” ([ncfootballnews.com][1])
For Zavion, Rackley said:
> “It just depends on what he grows into because he’s 6‑6 … that’s scary.” ([ncfootballnews.com][1])
—
## What This Means for UNC’s Defense
* **Front‑Seven Reinforcements:** Zavion is a high-ceiling edge who can help consistently generate pass-rush pressure. Jayden fills a need at linebacker with strong instincts and physicality.
* **Strengthens In‑State Pipeline:** These twins continue UNC’s momentum in North Carolina recruiting, following earlier strong pickups in the class.
* **Deepens 2026 Class:** With their pledge, UNC’s 2026 intake includes a full mix of skill position players, linemen, and now two blue-chip defenders—all from North Carolina ([ncfootballnews.com][1]).
—
## Looking Ahead
* **Summer Conditioning & Early Enrollment?** Like other top recruits, they may join early workouts or spring ball in 2026. This would give them early opportunities to learn the system and compete for playing time.
* **Follow Their Progress:** Expect fresh content over the offseason as UNC rolls out their depth chart and the coaching staff highlights key contributors. These two will be ones to watch.
—
### 🏈 Bottom Line
Although they’re not “Jackson twins,” the **Griffin‑Haynes brothers** represent a high-profile recruiting splash for UNC—two intelligent, versatile, and physically gifted in‑state prospects who could make early waves in the Tar Heel defense. Their synergy, commitment to Chapel Hill, and high ceilings make them among the crown jewels of the 2026 class.