UNC HC Mack Brown calls out programs trying to throw money at QB Drake Maye
North Carolina head coach Mack Brown didn't mince his words when discussing the illegal recruiting tactics several notable programs had apparently used to try to lure away his star quarterback, Drake Maye, via the transfer portal.
Speaking to the media on Monday, Brown said that Maye had turned down "a whole lot of money" to stay at UNC rather than enter the transfer portal.
The longtime head coach didn't implicate any program specifically, but he did make it clear that several big-time programs were trying to lure Maye away from Chapel Hill. He was asked which schools were offering Maye money.
"I can't say that and don't ask Drake. You know who they are. Just look at all the ones who are getting all the top recruits," Brown said.
Though college football programs are now able to use name, image and likeness opportunities to send millions of dollars directly into the pockets of their players and prized recruits, contacting a player from another school before the said player enters the transfer portal would be considered tampering, and thus, a significant recruiting violation.
Again, Brown didn't call out any one program specifically, but he did say these programs are very used to getting top recruits. Even casual fans of college football know that there are a few programs that come to mind in that regard.
Maye, who just completed his sophomore season, had an incredible campaign for the Tar Heels. He threw for 4,155 yards and 35 touchdowns with just seven interceptions. He also rushed 172 times for 653 yards and seven touchdowns, bringing his touchdown total to 42.
Along with USC's Caleb Williams, the 2022 Heisman Trophy winner, Maye is expected to be one of the top contenders for the Heisman in 2023.
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