JUST NOW, The UNC football program added some much-needed reinforcements to its special teams units, landing a transfer punter and placekicker.

JUST NOW, The UNC football program added some much-needed reinforcements to its special teams units, landing a transfer punter and placekicker.

The University of North Carolina (UNC) football program has made significant strides in enhancing its special teams unit by securing two pivotal transfers: placekicker Jaffer Murphy and punter Guytano Bartolomeo. These additions come at a crucial time, addressing areas that have previously posed challenges for the Tar Heels.

**Jaffer Murphy: A Powerful Leg for the Kicking Game**

Jaffer Murphy, a 6-foot-1, 185-pound kicker from Marion, Iowa, joins UNC after a standout season at Division II Lake Erie College. In 2024, Murphy set a conference record with a 60-yard field goal, marking the longest make across all Division II teams that season. He also connected on 13 field goals, including kicks from 53 and 55 yards, and was perfect on 17 extra-point attempts. His performance earned him First Team All-Conference and Second Team All-Region honors. Notably, Murphy’s powerful leg has seen him hit 70 and 72-yard kicks in practice, showcasing his potential to make an immediate impact at the FBS level.

**Guytano Bartolomeo: Versatility and Accuracy in Punting and Kicking**

Guytano Bartolomeo, a 5-foot-10, 170-pound specialist from Old Tappan, New Jersey, brings versatility to the Tar Heels’ special teams. A product of Bergen Catholic High School, Bartolomeo demonstrated exceptional accuracy, making 143 of 145 career extra-point attempts and 11 of 16 field goals, with a long of 41 yards. His kickoffs resulted in 60 touchbacks, highlighting his strong leg and consistency. Bartolomeo’s ability to contribute as both a kicker and punter provides UNC with valuable depth and flexibility in their special teams unit.

**Addressing Special Teams Challenges**

The Tar Heels’ special teams have faced challenges in recent seasons, particularly in punting. In 2023, UNC ranked 124th among FBS schools in net punting, underscoring the need for improvement in this area. The addition of Bartolomeo aims to rectify this, providing a reliable option to enhance the team’s punting game.

**Strategic Moves Under Coach Belichick**

Under the leadership of head coach Bill Belichick, UNC has prioritized strengthening its special teams. The strategic acquisitions of Murphy and Bartolomeo reflect a commitment to addressing previous shortcomings and building a more robust special teams unit. With these additions, the Tar Heels aim to gain a competitive edge in all facets of the game, ensuring that special teams contribute positively to their overall performance in the upcoming season.

As the 2025 season approaches, the integration of Murphy and Bartolomeo into the special teams unit is expected to bring renewed energy and effectiveness. Their skills and experience position them to make significant contributions, enhancing UNC’s prospects for success in the new era under Coach Belichick.