Greg McElroy predicts Omarion Hampton to have added role in 2024

Greg McElroy sees big things coming for North Carolina running back Omarion Hampton in 2024. The ESPN analyst recently released his list of the top 10 running backs in college football and ranked the Tar Heels junior at No. 2.

Hampton burst onto the scene this past season as a sophomore to finish fifth in the country with 1,504 yards rushing and 15 touchdowns. He was also involved in the receiving game with 29 catches for 222 yards and one touchdown.

McElroy argued that Hampton could see even more usage this upcoming season with quarterback Drake Maye gone to the NFL.

“Huge breakout year last year,” the ESPN analyst said. “Led the country with over 1,000 yards after contact. Like our No. 1 back, it came behind an offensive line that really wasn’t great. If you look at the running backs and kind of the benefit they get from having an elite offensive line, North Carolina was not that.

“Now Drake Maye is gone, so Omarion Hampton’s probably gonna get even more out of the offense this coming year. Hopefully the offensive line of the Tar Heels will take a step as well. He’s gonna have a massive year statistically as long as he can continue to stay healthy.”

That’s certainly high praise for the Tar Heels running back, whom McElroy even ranked ahead of big names such as Quinshon Judkins and TreVeyon Henderson. If that’s the case, it has the makings of a special season for the Tar Heels.

Hampton is primed to maintain his role as the lead back for UNC this season. The Tar Heels also brought in USC transfer Darwin Barlow who could potentially mix in some behind him.

Even despite its offensive line struggles this past season, North Carolina ranked 21st in the country with 5.0 yards per carry in part thanks to Hampton. The Tar Heels added 6-foot-8 offensive lineman Howard Sampson as well as former Georgia offensive lineman Austin Blaske in attempt to strengthen their front unit.

With those additions plus an opportunity to be a focal point in the offense, Hampton looks primed to build upon last season’s strong showing. The Tar Heels were one of the most explosive offenses in the country this past season to average 34.5 points per game and will look to keep it up behind their talented back. ‘

UNC is set to kick off the 2024 season on Aug. 29 against Minnesota.