2026 Offensive Lineman Cristian Alvarez Commits to North Carolina

Three-star interior offensive lineman Cristian Alvarez, who signed with Delaware in December, said Thursday he has committed to the Tar Heels’ staff. Alvarez plans both wrestle and play football for Carolina. UNC confirmed the signing later on Thursday.

Alvarez, a 6-foot-4, 295-pounder from Montvale (N.J.) St. Joseph Regional High School, originally committed to UMass in June before flipping and signing with Delaware on the first day of the Early Signing Period. He also held offers from Air Force, Army, Coastal Carolina, Marshall, Navy, Temple, and multiple Ivy League programs.

In addition to football, Alvarez is a nationally ranked heavyweight wrestler and a standout shot putter.

According to Jersey Sports Zone, Cristian Alvarez is a double state champion this year. In December, St. Joe’s-Montvale won a state football championship. Four months later, Alvarez won New Jersey’s heavyweight wrestling title.

Alvarez is the 41st signee for UNC in the 2026 class, which was ranked No. 17 in the country by On3, and includes eight other offensive lineman. The Tar Heels also added 20 players to the roster this offseason by way of the transfer portal, four of which were offensive linemen.