Heel Tough Blog: Tar Heels Complete Flip of 2026 3✮ WR After Weekend Visit

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For the second time this week, the Tar Heels have completed a flip of a prospect in the 2026 class.

According to multiple outlets, the Tar Heels landed a commitment from 2026 3✮ WR Nyqir Helton on Thursday afternoon following an official visit to Chapel Hill over the weekend. Helton made that trip as a Boston College but backed off his commitment there on Wednesday, setting the stage for his decision today.

Helton, the No. 1272 overall prospect and No. 189 wide receiver in the 2026 class according to the 247Sports Composite Player Rankings, is in the midst of his senior season at Winslow Township High School in Atco, NJ. So far this season, in nine games, he has hauled in 36 passes for 766 yards and ten touchdowns. That follows a junior season where he finished with 47 passes for 852 yards and 13 touchdowns on offense and 20 total tackles, four interceptions and four passes defensed for a team that took home a state title. As a sophomore in 2023, Helton finished with 33 receptions for 606 yards and seven touchdowns on offense and five total tackles, one interceptions and one pass defensed on defense.

Helton is an explosive player that should bring an element to this receiving corps that they are currently lacking this season. His ability to win and create separation downfield consistently leads to big plays, something that will be very welcome for a team that can’t do that right now. His speed is what allows him to create that separation and is also what allows him to make plays after the catch, as well. He also seems to have pretty reliable hands, something else that will also be welcomed by this Tar Heel team. With how much we have seen the young wide receivers on the field so far this year, it wouldn’t be a shock to see Helton or any of the other true freshmen receivers on the field next year if they can prove themselves to this coaching staff in the offseason. With Helton’s speed, he might be able to bring an element that this team is lacking right now, so we may see him sooner rather than later.

With his commitment, the Tar Heels class has swelled to 39 total commitments, including six at the wide receiver position. The commitment also bumps the class up to 15th overall and 3rd in the ACC according to the 247Sports Composite Team Rankings.