Star UNC running back Omarion Hampton began 2023 behind British Brooks on the depth chart, but after setting career-high in rushing yards (234) and single-game touchdowns (three) against App State in Week 2, that quickly changed.

Hampton didn't just end his season as the ACC's best running back, but one of the country's best. He scored 15 touchdowns and rushed for 1,504 yards, which was tops in the ACC and fifth in the entire country. Hampton recorded seven 100-yard rushing games, including six straight spanning from the Miami victory to North Carolina's double-overtime thriller against Duke.

With Drake Maye and Devontez Walker now in the NFL, Hampton is poised for an even greater 2024.

That was evident in even more preseason honors, as Hampton was named to the Sporting News 2024 Preseason All-America First Team.

I would be surprised if NFL scouts weren't watching Hampton like a hawk, as a monster season could very well play him into an early first-round pick. NFL backs tend to have a short tenure, but at Hampton's young age of 21, he could contribute for a professional team right away.

Because last year was Hampton's first as a full-time starter, opponents now have a year of game tape on him.

Will Hampton be able to produce again and lead the Tar Heels to an even better result this fall?

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This article originally appeared on Tar Heels Wire : Omarion Hampton earns preseason All-American honors