Matt Merletti out for season
North Carolina senior safety Matt Merletti injured his left knee in the first half of the Clemson game Saturday. Merletti sprained his MCL and ACL and will not return this season. He will have surgery within the next two weeks at UNC Hospitals.
A native of Cleveland, Ohio, Merletti leads the team with two interceptions and is tied for third on the team with 36 tackles. He is also a key contributor on special teams. Merletti finishes his Carolina career with 88 tackles and four interceptions.
In 2009, Merletti tore the ACL in his right knee during preseason practice and received a medical redshirt. He earned special teams co-captain honors in 2008 and was one of 11 true freshmen to play in 2007.