2026 QB Zaid Lott decommits from North Carolina

Charlotte (N.C.) Providence Day School three-star quarterback Zaid Lott has decommitted from North Carolina, he announced on Tuesday.

Lott had been pledged to the Tar Heels since June 2024, dating back to when former head coach Mack Brown was leading the program. However, he was fired this offseason and replaced by ex-New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick.

After the change, Lott has decided to reopen his recruitment.

“After much reflection, I have decided to forgo my commitment to the University of North Carolina,” he wrote on Twitter. “This choice was tough, but I believe it’s the best step for my future. I’m grateful for the support and understanding from everyone involved. I’m excited for what comes next.”

After much reflection, I have decided to forgo my commitment to the University of North Carolina. This choice was tough, but I believe it’s the best step for my future. I’m grateful for the support and understanding from everyone involved. I’m excited for what comes next.

— Zaid Lott (@lott_zaid) March 25, 2025

The 6-foot-3, 180-pounder is the No. 765 overall prospect in the 2026 class, according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies. He also ranks as the nation’s No. 53 quarterback and No. 34 recruit in North Carolina.

Prior to his early commitment to the Tar Heels, Lott also received offers from Charlotte, Boston College, Florida State and NC State.

He becomes the first 2026 decommitment of Belichick’s short tenure in Chapel Hill, as the Heels currently hold eight pledges from recruits in the rising senior class. Last week, Belichick and Co. made their biggest splash yet by flipping four-star defensive lineman Trashawn Ruffin away from Texas A&M.

This story will be updated.