Zach Pekarek is a versatile UNC depth piece with special-teams value and defensive grit
Pekarek is a high-motor, multi-use contributor for Northern Colorado who has carved out value through special teams and defense rather than flashy box-score production. In 2024, he played in nine games, logged eight tackles, and even handled one punt return for 14 yards, showing the kind of toughness and willingness to do the dirty work coaches tend to trust. UNC’s roster lists him as a running back, while ESPN lists him as a defensive lineman, which underscores his flexible, team-first profile more than a fixed offensive role. He looks like a fit for a program that values physicality, depth, and reliability over highlight-reel output.
