Norfolk State Adds Former UNC WR Paul Billups II to Growing Receiving Corps

As National Signing Day approaches, Norfolk State is continuing to build its roster through the transfer portal, adding former North Carolina wide receiver Paul Billups II. The move provides head coach Michael Vick with another talented option in what has already been one of the Spartans’ most productive areas on offense.

Billups II joins Norfolk State shortly after the Spartans landed Johnson C. Smith standout Brevan Caldwell, signaling a continued effort to strengthen the receiving corps with experienced talent. These additions come as Norfolk State looks to give its quarterback multiple high-level weapons to work with in 2026.

A three-star recruit coming out of high school, Billups II was ranked the No. 16 player in Virginia by 247Sports. At Western Branch High School, he was a versatile athlete, playing wide receiver, defensive back, and kick returner, and helped lead the team to an 11-3 record, including a regional championship and a state Final Four appearance.

By bringing in Billups II, Vick aims to infuse the Spartans’ passing attack with proven athleticism and potential, supplementing an already strong group of receivers while preparing the offense for a more consistent and dynamic season.

1. Billups’ College Journey

After a standout high school career, Billups II committed to North Carolina and redshirted his freshman year in 2023. During the 2024 season, he saw limited action, recording four receptions for 27 yards without scoring a touchdown. While his opportunities were minimal, Norfolk State sees untapped potential in the former Tar Heel. Vick expects Billups II to develop into a reliable target in the Spartans’ offense. His speed, route-running ability, and versatility provide multiple options in both the short and deep passing game. The coaching staff hopes his addition will complement existing talent and enhance the overall efficiency of the offense. Billups’ experience in a Power Five program brings insight into higher-level competition, which could benefit both the player and his new teammates. Exposure to ACC defenses and schemes equips him with a perspective that can help Norfolk State’s receivers refine their techniques and preparation. With his combination of high school pedigree and college-level experience, Billups II has the potential to become a key contributor, particularly in big games or situations requiring a reliable, athletic target downfield.

2. Spartans’ Wide Receiver Depth

Norfolk State’s receiving corps was a clear strength in 2025, led by JJ Evans, Dre’Sean Kendrick, and Kam’Ryn Thomas. Despite uncertainties at the quarterback position throughout the season, the wide receivers consistently produced, helping keep the offense competitive. Kendrick and Thomas each surpassed 700 receiving yards and scored five touchdowns, while JJ Evans contributed 501 yards and six touchdowns. Their production helped stabilize the offense and provided a foundation that Vick can now build upon with incoming transfers. The addition of both Brevan Caldwell and Paul Billups II gives Norfolk State a deep, versatile group of playmakers. This expanded room creates opportunities for dynamic formations, multiple receiving threats on the field, and increased flexibility in game planning. Vick’s focus on adding experienced, skilled receivers positions the Spartans to maximize offensive efficiency next season. With a strengthened roster, the quarterback will have multiple reliable options, making the team’s passing attack one of the more formidable units in their conference.

3. Looking Ahead for Norfolk State

Billups II’s arrival highlights Norfolk State’s strategy of leveraging the transfer portal to supplement recruiting and enhance competitiveness. The combination of established starters and incoming talent is designed to create depth, foster competition in practice, and maintain a high level of play throughout the season. Vick now has multiple proven receiving threats, giving the offense a balanced mix of speed, size, and playmaking ability. The continuity provided by returning players, combined with the addition of transfers, should create cohesion and reliability in the passing game. Spring and fall practices will be critical for integrating Billups II and Caldwell, ensuring the receivers can quickly learn the offensive system and develop chemistry with the quarterback. Their ability to contribute early will be a factor in the team’s overall success in 2026. If Norfolk State’s wide receiver room performs as expected, the Spartans will be positioned to field one of the most dynamic passing attacks in their conference, giving their offense the versatility and firepower needed to compete at a high level.