KJ Caldwell, a four‑star safety from Lilburn, Georgia, announced his commitment to NC State on Tuesday, choosing the Wolfpack over Georgia, Kansas State and Mississippi State. The decision marks a major recruiting win for the program as it looks to strengthen its defensive backfield for the 2027 cycle.
Ranked as the No. 82 overall prospect nationally and the fifth‑best safety in his class, Caldwell brings a blend of size, speed and playmaking ability that has drawn praise from analysts across the country.
During his sophomore season at Parkview High, he logged 38 tackles, four tackles for loss, two sacks and an interception on defense, while also contributing 264 yards and six touchdowns as a running back on offense.
A Boost for the Wolfpack
Caldwell’s decision not only adds depth at safety but also signals NC State’s growing influence in the Southeast, positioning the program as a key destination for elite talent in the region.
The commitment also brings Gunner Rivers, a four‑star quarterback and son of former NFL star Philip Rivers, into the fold. Rivers pledged to the Wolfpack earlier this year, making Caldwell and Rivers the only four‑star recruits in NC State’s current class.
With eight pledges already on board, the Wolfpack’s 2027 class sits at No. 34 nationally and seventh in the ACC, a position that could improve as more top talents decide their futures.