North Carolina’s Da’Norris Searcy cleared to return after missing 3 games

UNC’s Searcy cleared to return

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — North Carolina safety Da’Norris Searcy has been cleared to return this weekend against East Carolina after missing three games amid an ongoing NCAA investigation.

Searcy started all 13 games last season, but the school held him out of the first three games to determine his eligibility.

Thirteen players missed the opener against LSU while the NCAA reviewed agent-related benefits and possible academic violations in the football program. Tailback Shaun Draughn was cleared to return against Georgia Tech, while the NCAA announced a six-game suspension for cornerback Kendric Burney and a four-game suspension for safety Deunta Williams last week.

The status of nine players remains in question, including NFL prospects Marvin Austin and Robert Quinn.