Heel Tough Blog: Tar Heels Lose Key Member of DT Rotation to Portal

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The one position that the Tar Heels felt most comfortable about coming into this offseason was the defensive tackle spot because of the four-man rotation that the team used there this season expected to return. On Saturday, though, the team lost one of those four to the portal.

As first reported by Steve Wiltfong and Pete Nakos of On3 Sports/Rivals, Tar Heels defensive tackle CJ Mims has entered his name into the transfer portal according to his reps. He will have one year of eligibility remaining wherever he lands.

Mims, who transferred to UNC last offseason from East Carolina, played in all twelve games for the team this year, starting nine of those games for the team. In 356 snaps, he finished with 42 total tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss, 2.0 sacks, 14 total quarterback pressures and a forced fumble. 

Prior to his time in Chapel Hill, Mims tallied 37 total tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss, 2.0 sacks, 12 total quarterback pressures and two forced fumbles with the Pirates.

This is a tough loss for the Tar Heels considering Mims was the team’s best pass rushing defensive tackle. The good news is, this team has plenty of bodies in this room, especially with the recruiting class they just signed. Even with the depth in good shape, the team should be considering adding someone here that has proven they can rush the passer at this level out of that defensive tackle spot.