He enrolled at the University of North Carolina in 2009 and was a redshirt during his freshman year. Prior to attending the University of North Carolina, Renner worked out for the New York Yankees of the MLB. A standout high school baseball player, Renner initially wanted to compete for both the school's football and baseball teams, but eventually decided to concentrate solely on football. After appearing in several games as a backup behind T. J. Yates during his redshirt freshman season in 2010, he became North Carolina's starting quarterback as a redshirt sophomore in the 2011 football season. In his first game as North Carolina's starting quarterback, Renner completed 22 of 23 passes and set North Carolina and Atlantic Coast Conference records for passing accuracy. During the 2011 regular season, Renner completed 212 of 308 passes for 2,769 yards and 23 touchdowns. His quarterback rating of 161.2 ranked 10th among all NCAA Division I FBS quarterbacks. Renner followed up his impressive 2011 campaign during the 2012 season, completing over 65% of his passes for 3,356 yards, 28 touchdowns, and only 7 interceptions. His 7 interceptions ranked among the lowest in NCAA FBS among eligible Quarterbacks. His best game came in a 34–39 loss to the Louisville Cardinals led by Big East Conference Offensive Player of the Year, Teddy Bridgewater. Renner completed 26 of 41 passes for 363 yards and a career-high 5 touchdowns. He was named Honorable Mention All-ACC by coaches and media. Prior to the 2013 season, Renner was named to the Maxwell Award watch list, given annually to the best college football player in the country, as well as the Davey O'Brien Award watch list, given to the nation's best quarterback. Praising his performance at the Manning Passing Academy, NFL Network draft analyst Mike Mayock said Renner looked "polished" and would not be surprised if he is a first-round pick in the 2014 NFL Draft. However, his season ended after seven games due to a shoulder injury he suffered against NC State. For the season he had 1,765 passing yards and 10 touchdowns.
College statistics
Professional
Denver Broncos
After going undrafted in the 2014 NFL Draft, Renner signed with the Denver Broncos as a free agent. The Broncos waived Renner on August 24, 2014.
Arizona Rattlers
On October 8, 2014, Renner was signed by the Arizona Rattlers of the Arena Football League.
Baltimore Ravens
On January 12, 2015, Renner signed with the Baltimore Ravens. On September 5, 2015, he was released by the Ravens. On September 6, 2015, he was signed to the Ravens' practice squad. On September 16, 2015, he was cut by the Ravens. Renner was resigned to the Ravens' practice squad on December 9, 2015 and promoted to the active roster on December 12. He was released later that week after the Ravens signed former Texans QB Ryan Mallett.
Tennessee Titans
On December 23, 2015, it was announced that Renner had been signed to the Tennessee Titans practice squad.
San Diego Chargers
Renner was signed by the San Diego Chargers on March 30, 2016.
Pittsburgh Steelers
On August 20, 2016, Renner was signed by the Pittsburgh Steelers. On September 3, 2016, he was released by the Steelers as part of final roster cuts.
