UNC wide receiver and punt returner Ryan Switzer announced Wednesday morning that he plans to return to play his senior season.

Switzer shared the news on Twitter. “Even more blessed to return for my senior season & help our team continue to pursue a championship! There’s no place like home. #GoHeels”

The junior was also named to the American Football Coaches’ All-America Team as an all-purpose player on Wednesday morning.  Ryan Switzer returned two punts for touchdowns this season.  He holds the ACC record for punt return touchdowns with seven.  Ryan Switzer is one shy of the NCAA record of eight, which is held by Texas Tech’s Wes Welker and Oklahoma’s Antonio Perkins.

Going into the Russell Athletics Bowl, Ryan Switzer leads the Tar Heels with 52 catches. He has racked up 668 receiving yards and six receiving touchdowns.  He returned 22 total punts for 302 yards for a 13.7-yard average that ranks second in the ACC. He ranks ninth in the country with 23.2 punt return yards per game.

Switzer also earned All-America honors as a freshman in 2013.

Ryan Switzer

Ryan Switzer after a punt return for a touchdown. Photo via Smith Cameron Photography

He is the eighth two-time first-team All-America in UNC history.  The other two-time honorees at UNC are Dre’ Bly (1996-97-98), Dave Dreschler (1981-82), William Fuller (1982-83), Charlie Justice (1948-49), Julius Peppers (2000-01), Paul Severin (1939-40) and Art Weiner (1948-49).

Ryan Switzer is the second Tar Heel to earn All-America honors this season. Senior guard Landon Turner was named a first-team All-American by the AP on Sunday.  He also earned All-America recognition from Athlon Sports.

 

 

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