Heel Tough Blog: Tar Heels Add Second 4✮ WR to 2026 Haul

@carnellwarrenn- Instagram

For the second time in the last week, the Tar Heels have landed a commitment from a 4✮ wide receiver in the 2026 class.

As first reported by Rivals recruiting reporter Chad Simmons, the Tar Heels have just received a commitment from 2026 4✮ WR Carnell Warren, completing a flip from ACC rival Virginia Tech. His commitment comes after he officially visited Chapel Hill back on the weekend of June 20th after decommitting from Hokies the previous weekend.

Warren, the No. 319 overall prospect and No. 50 wide receiver in the 2026 class according to 247Composite Player Rankings, hails from Bluffton High School in Bluffton, SC. This past season, as a junior, he led his team in receiving, catching 59 passes for 846 yards and 14 touchdowns in 11 games on his way to first team all-region honors and an appearance in the Under Armour Next All-American Game back in January. Back in 2023, he caught 55 passes for 723 yards and nine touchdowns.

Warren, who measures in at 6’4.5, 195 lbs., is a very complete receiver who can affect the passing game at all three levels. He does a really good job of creating separation at all levels of the field because of the strong route running and speed that he brings to the table. He is a really strong hands-catcher of the football and it shows up all over his film, especially on the plays deeper down the field. He uses his size well when it comes to winning 50/50 balls, primarily in the red zone, and that will be something that will be welcomed in Chapel Hill. Warren is a great fit alongside Keeyun Chapman and gives the Tar Heels two big-time playmakers in this class that should be a major part of this receiving corps in future years.

With his commitment, the Tar Heels are up to 31 commitments in the 2026 class, including four at the wide receiver spot. The class also ranks 19th overall and 5th in the ACC according to the 247Sports Composite Team Rankings.