Two North Carolina players entered the transfer portal on Monday. 

North Carolina DL Kristian Varner was the first to do so, announcing the news on Twitter. 

Receiver Emery Simmons followed shortly after and announced his decision on Instagram.

 

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Varner was a member of UNC’s 2019 recruiting class. He was a 3-star prospect, per 247Sports Composite rankings. That service ranked him as the No. 87 strong side defensive end in that class. 

Varner recorded statistics in two games for the Tar Heels — once last season and once this season. He appeared in one game as a true freshman in 2019. He contributed 3 total tackles and 1 tackle for loss during his time in Chapel Hill. 

Varner was expected to play a depth role for the Tar Heels this season, but his playing time trailed off in recent weeks. 

Simmons was also a member of UNC’s 2019 recruiting class. He was a 3-star prospect and the No. 62 receiver in the country, per 247Sports Composite rankings. 

Simmons played a role in the Tar Heels’ offense earlier this season. He caught 11 passes for 243 yards and 1 touchdown across 5 games before deciding to transfer. However, his last reception came on Oct. 9 vs. Florida State.

North Carolina hosts undefeated Wake Forest on Saturday.