During the excitement surrounding North Carolina's big rise in the Rivals.com Team Rankings on Wednesday. the Tar Heels picked up a commitment from IMG Academy linebacker Parks Cochrane.

Cochrane (6-0, 204 pounds) began hearing from the Tar Heels last month, it all started with a conversation with former Tar Heels linebackers coach Mike Ekeler, an opportunity Parks aid didn’t end with last month’s staff change.

"Things with Carolina dates back to when I was in contact with former coach Mike Ekeler before the staff change, but following that I was able to get back in contact with the new coaches after the change,” he told THI.

He chose the Tar Heels as a preferred walk-on over similar interest from Oregon, Vanderbilt and SMU.

Tar Heel Illustrated caught up with Cochrane to discuss what he liked about the Tar Heels and what is his motivation heading to Chapel Hill next month.

THI: What was the deciding factor in you picking North Carolina, and when exactly did you pick up the PWO opportunity from the staff?

Cochrane: After talking with the coaching staff and going over my situation with them, I came to believe my best opportunity would be to enroll early and compete under a great new coaching staff at UNC. I believe with a semester ahead I can come in and prove myself a valuable player for the defense. I was given my PWO last week when Coach Tim Brewster came to IMG, we had a great conversation about the transition to UNC.

THI: Have they told you about the possibility of gaining a scholarship later down the road?

Cochrane: Yes sir, and just coming from IMG my drive is to be the best I can be and compete against the best. I'm excited to work to gain a name for myself on the team and hopefully soon a scholarship.

THI: While talking to the staff, have they pinpointing what position they see you starting out while you get on campus.

Cochrane: Middle linebacker.

THI: What are your current thoughts on the Tar Heels football program?

Cochrane: I know that the program is up and coming with Coach Mack Brown being such a great coach and a figure for UNC. We have a great recruiting class and have a lot of support behind us.

THI: Speaking of Mack Brown, what are your thoughts about your future coach?

Cochrane: All I can say is he's an amazing guy and a legendary coach, I've had some time to talk with him and I can't wait to play under him.