That versatility was an expansion of the role Cost solidified as a sophomore in 2024, when he started all 13 games in the Tar Heel secondary. Cost logged 45 tackles last season for the Tar Heels, ranking second among UNC defensive backs and fifth on the team. “Sometimes you’re guarding guys outside one-on-one, you have guys inside in the run game, guarding the passing game and play action. It’s his turn to serve as a leader and help guide the younger Tar Heels following in his footsteps. Entering his second season under Belichick, Cost points to a stronger understanding of the playbook as a source of confidence heading into 2026.