Quarterback race remains open with Dublin looming

North Carolina entered the final stretch of preseason preparation without a publicly named starting quarterback. Bill Belichick said Friday that the competition remained open as the team transitioned from the isolation of training camp into its normal academic and practice schedule.

The quarterback decision is not the only unresolved piece. Belichick also declined to name a defensive play caller and described several position battles as ongoing. Those decisions now carry greater urgency with the August 29 opener approaching.

The TCU matchup in Dublin gives the staff additional logistical considerations. Carolina must settle its travel roster and game plan while preparing for an international trip and a noon Eastern kickoff.

Until a starter is named, the quarterback competition will remain the defining storyline of the final preseason phase. The choice will also offer the clearest indication yet of how Belichick intends to reshape an offense that struggled during the 2025 season.