UNC’s Omarion Hampton Declares for NFL Draft After Record-Breaking Season

North Carolina’s Omarion Hampton Declares for NFL Draft After Record-Breaking Season

Big news out of Chapel Hill! North Carolina running back Omarion Hampton has officially declared for the 2025 NFL Draft. The announcement came on Sunday, sending shockwaves through the college football world as one of the nation’s top rushers prepares to take his talents to the next level.

In a heartfelt statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Hampton expressed his gratitude and excitement for the journey ahead. “It has been my dream for as long as I can remember to play in the NFL, and I am grateful for the opportunities that led me here,” Hampton wrote. The post was accompanied by a touching message to the Chapel Hill community, thanking fans, teammates, and coaches for their support during his time with the Tar Heels.

A Season to Remember

Hampton’s decision to declare for the draft comes after a truly remarkable junior season. He finished second in the nation in rushing yards, trailing only Ashton Jeanty, with an impressive 1,660 yards in just 12 games. On top of that, he racked up 15 rushing touchdowns, cementing his status as one of the most dominant running backs in college football this year.

But that’s not all. Hampton also shattered a long-standing school record for all-purpose yards in a single season. His 2,033 all-purpose yards surpassed the previous mark of 2,021 set by Don McCauley all the way back in 1970. That’s over five decades of history rewritten by Hampton’s incredible performance this year.

Climbing the Record Books

Hampton’s career stats are just as impressive as his single-season accomplishments. Over three seasons with the Tar Heels, he amassed 3,565 rushing yards, which places him fourth on North Carolina’s all-time rushing list. It’s safe to say that Hampton has left an indelible mark on the program, and his name will be remembered alongside the greats in Tar Heel history.

What’s Next for Hampton?

As he prepares for the next chapter of his football journey, Hampton is already drawing attention from NFL scouts and analysts. ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. currently ranks him as the No. 2 running back in the 2025 NFL Draft class. That’s a huge endorsement from one of the most respected draft experts in the game, and it speaks volumes about Hampton’s potential at the professional level.

Why Hampton’s Decision Matters

Hampton’s departure is a bittersweet moment for North Carolina fans. On one hand, it’s tough to see such a talented player leave the program. On the other hand, his success is a testament to the strength of the Tar Heels’ football program and their ability to develop NFL-caliber talent. Hampton’s journey from Chapel Hill to the NFL will undoubtedly inspire future recruits and players to follow in his footsteps.

Key Highlights of Omarion Hampton’s Career

• Second in the nation in rushing yards in 2024 with 1,660 yards.
• Set a new North Carolina single-season record with 2,033 all-purpose yards.
• Scored 15 rushing touchdowns in his junior season.
• Ranked fourth all-time in school history with 3,565 career rushing yards.
• Currently ranked as the No. 2 running back in the 2025 NFL Draft by Mel Kiper Jr.

As the NFL Draft approaches, all eyes will be on Omarion Hampton to see where he lands and how he transitions to the professional stage. One thing is for sure: his combination of speed, power, and vision makes him a player to watch, and his future in the NFL looks incredibly bright.

For now, Tar Heel fans can reflect on the unforgettable moments Hampton provided during his time in Chapel Hill. From record-breaking runs to game-changing plays, he’s given them plenty to cheer about. And as he takes the next step in his career, he’ll carry the pride of North Carolina with him every step of the way.