Drake Maye gives first impression of transfer receivers at North Carolina

North Carolina quarterback Drake Maye is coming off of a breakout 2022 season, and he’ll have a couple of new weapons at his disposal in 2023. The Tar Heels added Georgia Tech receiver Nate McCollum and Kent State wideout Devontez Walker via the transfer portal.

With spring practice kicking off last week for UNC, Maye has already had the chance work with both transfers. He likes what he has seen from them so far.

“It’s a little different with the transfer portal, but it was a blast getting to know those guys,” the quarterback said. “Tez and Nate, their great guys first off. Great players out here. You see them already making plays in practice the first two days. I think I missed Tez today on a touchdown and I told him I wouldn’t miss it again.

“Tez, he runs like a gazelle. He’ll beat you deep but also can run any route in the tree. Nate, he’s a route technician. He’s quick and twitchy like Josh and he’ll be a nice addition. I think we’ve got a good group. We’ve also got three or four guys that have done some things in the past, including last year. So we’ve got a good overall group.”

Walker ranks as the No. 12 receiver according to On3’s Transfer Portal Rankings. The 6-foot-3 receiver led Kent State with 58 catches for 921 yards and 11 touchdowns and has an opportunity to carve out a big role for the Tar Heels this season.

UNC was already familiar with how dangerous McCollum can be after facing him at Georgia Tech the past two seasons. He finished as the leading receiver for the Yellow Jackets in 2022, posting career highs with 60 receptions for 655 yards and three touchdowns.

North Carolina lost its top two receivers from last season in Josh Downs and Antoine Green, who combined for 1,827 yards and 18 touchdowns. With that in mind, Walker and McCollum will be tasked with helping to replace their production. Returning tight end Bryson Nesbit and receiver JJ Jones should also play a factor.

Drake Maye will get the opportunity to show off the chemistry he develops with the transfers when North Carolina hosts its spring game on April 15.