College Football

Amare Campbell Transfer Portal: Former UNC Linebacker Eyes SMU, Texas Tech

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By
Colin Lynch
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Colin Lynch Sports Editor

Colin Lynch covers the NFL, MLB and WNBA for Heavy.com, with a focus on the New England Patriots. His sports coverage has been featured on The Sports Daily and Basketball Insiders, as well as FanSided's Chowder & Champions. A New Hampshire native and former D1 baseball player at St. John's University, Colin was drafted by the San Diego Padres in 2008 and enjoyed a four-year professional baseball career.

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Published26 Apr 2025

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Standout UNC Linebacker Amare Campbell is eyeing the Lone Star State as a possible transfer to SMU or Texas Tech looms. 

In the ever-changing landscape of college football, some decisions take time — and for standout linebacker Amare Campbell, the journey to find his next home is now fully underway.

Campbell, who emerged as one of North Carolina’s top defensive playmakers in 2024, has re-entered the transfer portal just days after completing spring practices with the Tar Heels under new head coach Bill Belichick. It marks the second time Campbell has considered leaving Chapel Hill, but this time, his mind seems made up.

And the interest? Immediate.

Campbell has already scheduled an official visit to SMU for next weekend, as the Mustangs look to bolster their front seven. Texas Tech has also shown strong interest, with the Red Raiders seeking to add more defensive punch to a roster already reshaped by portal additions.

Dominant in Chapel Hill

At 6-feet, 230 pounds, Campbell made his presence known last season. He started all 13 games for North Carolina, finishing second on the team with 76 total tackles, including 45 solo stops. His impact went beyond tackles — Campbell also racked up 10.5 tackles for loss and 6.5 sacks, ranking second in both categories for the Tar Heels.

Originally arriving at UNC as an early enrollee in 2023, Campbell quickly climbed the depth chart. He played in 11 games as a freshman, earning his first start in the Duke’s Mayo Bowl against West Virginia. But it was his sophomore campaign in 2024 that established him as one of the rising linebackers in the ACC.

His growth was undeniable. Yet, despite his success, changes at North Carolina — including the dismissal of Mack Brown and the arrival of Belichick — have led Campbell to seek a new challenge.

New Leadership, New Decisions

The Tar Heels, fresh off their first spring under Belichick, are already feeling the effects of transition. Defensive end Beau Atkinson, UNC’s sack leader in 2024, also entered the portal following spring ball.

Campbell’s departure adds to the uncertainty on defense, but for him, the future is full of promise. Programs like SMU and Texas Tech see Campbell as a player who can immediately elevate their defenses.

SMU offers a compelling opportunity. As they prepare to enter the ACC, adding a proven Power Five linebacker could be a statement move. Meanwhile, Texas Tech’s aggressive approach to the portal has made Lubbock an appealing destination for players seeking big roles on competitive teams.

For Campbell, the decision ahead is about more than just playing time — it’s about finding a place to grow, compete, and lead.

Wherever he lands, one thing is certain: Amare Campbell won’t just a team. He’ll transform it.