North Carolina flips 4-star DL Vodney Cleveland from Texas

Before pledging to Texas in June, North Carolina was already on Vodney Cleveland‘s radar, and that interest never truly faded. As the season went on, the Tar Heels continued to push, staying in steady communication and hosting him for two game-day visits to Chapel Hill. After that second trip, Cleveland made the call to switch his commitment.

Cleveland is the No. 252 prospect in the Rivals Industry Ranking, and even after he committed to Texas, North Carolina never let up.

“They’ve recruited me very hard even though I was committed to Texas, and they made me feel like a priority,” Cleveland told Rivals.

His outlook on UNC shifted during the season and became even clearer after his official visit when they hosted Duke.

“When I took my official visit and really understood Coach Belichick and how he’s a great coach and developer, that’s when I started thinking UNC could be the place.”

After the official visit most recent visit to Chapel Hill sealed it.

“It was a big visit, and it felt normal — like I was in the right place,” he said. “I knew that was where I wanted to be after that visit.

“The opportunity to play for Coach Belichick was one of the main reasons I chose UNC. The NFL experience stood out to me. I can get a great education, and be developed – all were factors in my decision.”

Cleveland was primarily recruited by coaches Jones and Diaco, and he connected quickly with both.

“I mostly liked how knowledgeable they were and how transparent they were with me,” he added. “I am very excited to play for them and Coach Belichick.”