Jelani Thurman named to the John Mackey Award Preseason Watch ListThurman was recently named to the John Mackey Award preseason watch list. Preseason Recognition for Jelani Thurman pic.twitter.com/jHVrvu44YW — Carolina Football (@UNCFootball) August 5, 2026The Atlantic Coast Conference was well-represented on this preseason watch list. A 6-foot-6, 250-pounder from Fairburn, Georgia, the Tar Heels are hoping that he can be a steady weapon for the offense to rely on this season. Bill Belichick and the Tar Heels have been searching for additional talent ever since they took over the reigns of the program just over a year ago. After last season's offensive woes, the Tar Heels desperately need a much better season in terms of putting points on the board.