A notable absence in the UNC football team’s Duke’s Mayo Bowl loss to South Carolina was junior defensive lineman Tomari Fox. Fox, who is the younger brother of senior linebacker Tomon Fox, missed the game due to eligibility concerns which could sideline him for the entirety of the 2022 regular season.

According to a statement from UNC, Fox used a pre-workout supplement which was not approved by the NCAA.

“It is our understanding that Tomari thought it was approved, but ultimately, it was not,” the statement said.

The decision is currently being appealed. Should the appeal be successful, Fox would immediately be eligible for next season. However, if the appeal is denied he will be forced to sit out all of UNC’s regular season games, but could play in any potential postseason matchups.

In the meantime, Fox will still be able to practice with the team and participate in spring scrimmages and games.

Fox played in all 12 regular season games for Carolina in 2021, registering 25 total tackles and 1.5 sacks. His absence would be a blow to a UNC defensive line room which projects as one of the more talented positional groups in 2022. Jahvaree Ritzie, Kevin Hester and second team All-ACC member Myles Murphy all return for the Tar Heels, with five-star freshman Keeshawn Silver, who missed the 2021 season due to injuries, factoring in as well.

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