For as much talent as the UNC football team has had to say good-bye to over the last few weeks–a group that includes the starting quarterback, top three receivers, top three tailbacks and top three offensive linemen–reinforcements can’t arrive soon enough.

On Wednesday that process got underway, with eight new Tar Heels welcomed to campus as early enrollees–having graduated from high school a semester early to get their careers started in Chapel Hill.

Those players include: tailback Michael Carter, wide receiver J.T. Cauthen, defensive lineman Xach Gill, offensive lineman Quiron Johnson, defensive lineman Jake Lawler, offensive lineman Jonah Melton, defensive lineman Jordon Riley and defensive back Tre Shaw.

“It’s great to get so many of these guys on campus,” head coach Larry Fedora said in a statement released by the school.  “This is an opportunity for them to get a head start on their academics and become more comfortable in and around the football building and with our staff.  We’re thrilled to have them on campus as they start their UNC careers.”

The arrival of these players represents a new wave of UNC football, as Fedora recognizes he will have to find new stars and leaders across the board for 2017.

After attending their first college classes on Wednesday, each player spent the afternoon getting used to the surroundings at the Kenan Football Center.

While there, they were fitted for their equipment and given a workout session by strength and conditioning coach Lou Hernandez.

They’ll have a little more time to adjust over the next couple months before the beginning of Blue Dawn conditioning drills and spring practice–two events that could show coaches how ready they are to contribute immediately next season.

For the star ratings given to each member of UNC’s 2017 recruiting class by Scout.com, click here.

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