Two ACC transfers, Tez Walker and Darrell Jackson Jr., had their waivers for immediate eligibility denied by the NCAA on Tuesday. This decision has significant implications for both the North Carolina Tar Heels and the Florida State Seminoles. Here’s what you need to know:
Walker, a highly regarded receiver, was voted Preseason First-Team All-ACC and named to the Biletnikoff Award watchlist earlier this month. However, his request for immediate eligibility was denied as a two-time transfer. Walker spent the past two seasons at Kent State after originally signing with NC Central. He left NC Central without playing a game due to the cancellation of their 2020 season because of COVID-19. UNC is currently appealing the NCAA’s decision.
On the other hand, Jackson, a defensive lineman, started all 12 games for Miami in 2022. He was seeking a hardship waiver after returning home to be closer to his ailing mother in the Tallahassee area. Florida State coach Mike Norvell expressed his disappointment with the NCAA’s denial of Jackson’s waiver.
The Athletic’s instant analysis highlights the impact of these decisions on both teams. For North Carolina, losing Walker is a tremendous blow, especially considering his expected role as the team’s top receiver. Walker’s status as a Preseason All-ACC First-Team member without having played a snap in the league speaks to his talent and potential impact. While the Tar Heels have other talented skill players, such as Nate McCollum, Bryson Nesbit, and Andre Greene Jr., stepping up, there is no replacing a player of Walker’s caliber so close to the start of the season. UNC is appealing the decision, but given the NCAA’s history with similar cases, it is unlikely that Walker will be eligible for the season-opener against South Carolina on Sept. 2.
From Florida State’s perspective, they are fortunate to have other quality defensive tackles, including Brandon Fiske, a 29-game starter at Western Michigan and a graduate transfer. Additionally, Fabien Lovett Sr., Dennis Briggs Jr., and Malcolm Ray, who all started for the Seminoles last season, provide depth and experience at the position.
The article also includes statements from Walker and Jackson regarding their transfers and the NCAA’s decision. Walker explains that he transferred to UNC to be closer to home and his ailing grandmother, who has never seen him play. He expresses his desire to play and hopes that those in charge will give him the opportunity. Jackson, on the other hand, reveals that he returned home for his mom and wants to be there for her during this difficult time.
North Carolina coach Mack Brown supports Walker’s eligibility, arguing that he should be considered a first-time transfer since he has only played football at one school. Brown emphasizes that Walker’s decision to transfer was motivated by his desire to be closer to home and his dream school. He also highlights the support from Kent State, which plays a significant role in the eligibility of the new directive.
Overall, the denial of immediate eligibility for Walker and Jackson has significant implications for both North Carolina and Florida State. These decisions impact the teams’ depth and talent at key positions and raise questions about the NCAA’s transfer rules. As both programs appeal the NCAA’s decision, they hope for a favorable ruling that would allow these talented players to contribute on the field this season.