UNC football lands Penn State linebacker Vilbert Smith in transfer portal

Bill Belichick and North Carolina continue to shine in the transfer portal. Most recently, they have drawn in four-star transfer linebacker Smith Vilbert from the perennially talented Big Ten Conference school, Penn State.

So far, the Tar Heels have already added linebackers Khmori House from Washington as well as bringing back Amare Campbell after he entered the portal.

Vilbert was an 88-ranked, three-star prospect out of high school in Montvale, New Jersey. After red-shirting in his first season, he has since played four years with Penn State fulfilling a backup role for the first three years and breaking out as a star last season. He had four tackles for a loss, 1.5 sacks, two forced fumbles and a fumble recovery in 16 games.

LFG-#GoHeels pic.twitter.com/ishZvsI5iT
— Smithvilbert (@Smithvilbert2) March 20, 2025

According to Brian Dohn from 247Sports, "Long, big frame with wide shoulders. Is 6-6, 250, and can play at 270 on the edge. Length is impressive and he uses it well. A former basketball player who concentrated on football as a senior. Great burst at the snap and has speed off the edge. Has the strength to disengage and change direction well for a player his size. Good body control. Possesses closing speed.

Quick learner and transitions practice field lessons to games. Moves well laterally and chases plays down on the backside. Improved technique is a must. Needs to learn to use combo moves. Increasing the ability to bend at the knees will help with leverage at the point of attack and against run. Lacks experience. Has to improve lower body strength. Two-to three-year starter at strong Power 5 program and mid-level NFL draft pick."

Vilbert should bolster an already revamped and talented defense led by Steve Belichick. The season will kick off on September 1, 2025, against the Big 12 Conference's TCU.

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This article originally appeared on Tar Heels Wire: UNC football lands Penn State linebacker in huge transfer portal grab

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