Injured UNC QB Johnson Plans to Return in 2025

Sam Howell took over UNC quarterbacking duties in 2020

After suffering a season-ending injury in November 2022, North Carolina quarterback Drake Maye entered the NCAA transfer portal. Maye had a promising start to his college career, throwing for 4,115 yards and 38 touchdowns in 2021 and getting named the ACC's Rookie of the Year. But Maye's production dipped in 2022 as he threw for fewer yards, touchdowns, and a higher interception total.

UNC still has solid depth at Quarterback

Despite Maye's departure, UNC still has a solid quarterback room with Sam Howell and Jacolby Criswell on the roster. Howell, a former 5-star recruit, transferred to UNC from North Carolina State in 2022. He started 11 games for the Wolfpack in 2021 and threw for 3,056 yards and 24 touchdowns. Criswell, a redshirt freshman, played in three games for UNC in 2022 and completed 10 of 16 passes for 110 yards. With Howell and Criswell on the roster, UNC should be in good shape at quarterback in 2023.

What's next for Maye?

Maye will likely have to sit out the 2023 season due to NCAA transfer rules. He will have two years of eligibility remaining after that and should be a sought-after quarterback in the transfer portal. Maye could end up being a key piece for a contender in 2024.