JUCO OL Jonah Rodriguez breaks down commitment to North Carolina

San Diego (Calif.) Southwestern JC offensive lineman Jonah Rodriguez just announced his commitment to North Carolina and broke down why he chose the Tar Heels. 

North Carolina offered Rodriguez in October and he took an official visit earlier this month. The big lineman took a mid-west visit to Colorado last week but decided over the weekend for the Tar Heels. 

“Coach (Will) Friend (OL coach) was a huge reason why I chose North Carolina,” Rodriguez said. “He has a lot of experience to help me become the player I want to be. 

“There’s a great opportunity for me there and obviously with coach Belichick there, that’s huge too. I love the way they operate, it’s just like an NFL organization and I love the all around fit.”

Rodriguez said scheme fit and development are two more pluses with the Tar Heels. 

“They run a pro-style offense and that fits me,” Rodriguez said. “They really emphasize development there too and the coaches know how to prepare you for the NFL and that’s huge for me as well. 

“Not only that, they lose seven offensive linemen this year so there’s a lot of opportunity to play right away. Nothing is promised of course but if do my part, I’ll have an opportunity and that’s all you can ask for.”

Rodriguez has bounced around a bit but found a home at Southwestern JC this fall and had a strong season. He originally signed with San Diego State as part of the class of ’23. 

He transferred to Arizona in May of 2024 but was back in the transfer portal in December of ’24 and ended up enrolling at Southwestern this past March. 

“I feel like I found a home at North Carolina,” Rodriguez said. “My goals are all there before me. My dream is to play in the NFL and I think the staff at UNC can definitely help me get there.”