University of North Carolina Athletics
Jefferson Named ACC Specialist Of The Week
October 5, 2026 | Football
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – After scoring the Tar Heels' first kickoff return for a touchdown since 2024, North Carolina freshman Jaden Jefferson has been named the ACC Specialist of the Week, the conference office announced Monday.
On his first collegiate touch, Jefferson returned the opening kickoff of the second half 98 yards for a touchdown, providing an immediate spark for the Tar Heels. He weaved through a crowd of players early in the return before finding the sideline and racing to the end zone.
The 98-yard return is tied for the sixth-longest in program history. Jefferson is one of just two ACC players with a kickoff return touchdown this season and one of only 15 players nationally to accomplish the feat.
A native of Oakland, California, Jefferson brings elite speed to the Tar Heels' return game. He owns the California state record in the 100 meters with a time of 10.01 seconds.
Jefferson is one of three Tar Heels to earn ACC weekly honors this season, joining Xavier Lewis, who was named defensive lineman of the week on Aug. 31, and Derek McDonald, who earned linebacker of the week honors on Aug. 31.
The Tar Heels return to action Saturday, Oct. 10, when Carolina travels to Pitt for a noon kickoff at Acrisure Stadium. The game will be televised on ESPN.
On his first collegiate touch, Jefferson returned the opening kickoff of the second half 98 yards for a touchdown, providing an immediate spark for the Tar Heels. He weaved through a crowd of players early in the return before finding the sideline and racing to the end zone.
The 98-yard return is tied for the sixth-longest in program history. Jefferson is one of just two ACC players with a kickoff return touchdown this season and one of only 15 players nationally to accomplish the feat.
A native of Oakland, California, Jefferson brings elite speed to the Tar Heels' return game. He owns the California state record in the 100 meters with a time of 10.01 seconds.
Jefferson is one of three Tar Heels to earn ACC weekly honors this season, joining Xavier Lewis, who was named defensive lineman of the week on Aug. 31, and Derek McDonald, who earned linebacker of the week honors on Aug. 31.
The Tar Heels return to action Saturday, Oct. 10, when Carolina travels to Pitt for a noon kickoff at Acrisure Stadium. The game will be televised on ESPN.
Players Mentioned
Wide Receiver
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Defensive Line
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Linebacker
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