Offense
CJ Bailey returns for his third season as the starting quarterback. Last year was his best year yet as he threw for 3,105 yards, 25 touchdowns, and nine interceptions, on 68.8% competition rate. He will continue to grow and develop and is already one of the top quarterbacks in the ACC.
The running back room loses a very productive back in Hollywood Smothers. Jayden “Duke” Scott returns with experience, and it is his time to shine. North Carolina transfer Davion Gause will be relied upon for depth, and true freshman Dylan McCoy is one to watch after his showing in the spring.
The wide receiver room will be very transfer heavy. Keenan Jackson is a returning starter. The additions of Joshisa Trader (Miami), Tyran Warren (Alcorn State), Chance Robinson (Miami), Davion Dozier (App State), Victor Snow (Buffalo), and tight end Vander Ploog (Oregon), among others, provide the depth and star power this unit needs.
The offensive line room returns experience in Teague Anderson, Rico Jackson, Spike Sowells Jr., Kamen Smith, and Yousef Mugharbil. The additions Jai’Lun Hampton (UT Martin), Daniel Cruz (Texas), and Jimarion McCrimon (East Carolina, All-AAC) provide great depth for this unit.
Defense
The defensive line room returns experience in Joseph Adedire, Chase Bond, Josiah Victor, and Isaiah Shirley. The additions of KaTron Evans (Marshall) and AJ Prim (JUCO) are big. Tulane transfer Harvey Dyson led the American last season with eight sacks as a stand up rush end/edge.
The linebacker room will be transfer heavy. AJ Richardson, LaCorian Hodge, and Zane Williams have the most returning experience. The additions of Raul “Popo” Aquirre Jr. (Miami), DeKaari Nelson (Penn State), and Hervey Dyson (Tulane) will all start and play huge roles.
The secondary returns experience in Jackson Vick, Brain Nelson II, Tristan Teasdell, Ronnie Royal III, and Asaad Brown Jr. The additions of Ondre Evans (Georgia), King Mack (Penn State), and Ty White (North Carolina) provide the big time punch this unit needs at cornerback.
Specialists
Kicker Kanoah Vinesett returns. He showcased his strong leg last season. The punting role will belong to Arkansas State transfer Jackson Waller. He was a real weapon for the Red Wolves last season.
2026 Schedule
- 8/29 at Virginia
- 9/11 Richmond
- 9/19 at Vanderbilt
- 9/26 App State
- 10/3 Louisville
- 10/10 Wake Forest
- 10/23 at Stanford
- 10/31 California
- 11/7 Duke
- 11/14 Syracuse
- 11/21 at Florida State
- 11/28 at North Carolina
Final Analysis
NC State finished strong last season and there is hope that will carry over into 2026. Dave Doeren is entering Year 14 at NC State and both coordinators too. CJ Bailey could have a big year if players develop around him. The Wolfpack perform best when they fly under the radar.
