Projected Starters and Depth Chart
Preseason practice for the North Carolina State Wolfpack kicked off on July 29, marking the start of a crucial build‑up to the 2026 season opener scheduled for August 29 at Virginia in Charlottesville. It is the 14th year under head coach Dave Doeren, who has guided the team through a period of transition and growth.
At the heart of the offense is quarterback CJ Bailey, who enters his third season as the projected starter after completing 69 percent of his passes for 3,105 yards and 31 touchdowns last year. Backup depth includes Will Wilson and Tad Hudson, but Bailey’s experience and production have cemented his position as the team’s primary signal‑caller.
Running back Duke Scott is slated to assume a larger workload following the departure of Hollywood Smothers. Scott posted a 5.6 yards‑per‑carry average and four touchdowns in the previous campaign, and his blend of speed and power is expected to anchor the rushing attack.
The Wolfpack’s receiving corps will be led by Davion Dozier, Keenan Jackson and JoJo Trader, all slated to start at wide receiver. Dozier, a transfer from Appalachian State, brings a 6‑foot‑3 frame that stretches defenses, while Victor Snow, a Buffalo transfer, adds versatility as a receiver and return specialist.
At tight end, Hunter Provience, a Montana State transfer, is the projected starter after key departures to the NFL. Provience’s experience makes him the most seasoned option at the position, providing a reliable target in the middle of the field.
The offensive line will feature a mix of returning starters and newcomers, including Teague Anderson, Kamen Smith, Spike Sowells Jr., Yousef Mugharbil and Jimarion McCrimon, who are expected to protect Bailey’s blind side and open lanes for the running game.
Defensively, the line will be anchored by Isaiah Shirley, who will take on an expanded leadership role after a strong previous season, alongside Joseph Adedire, Josiah Victor and Harvey Dyson. Dyson, a Tulane transfer, is expected to boost the pass rush, while Shirley’s increased responsibility will help guide the unit.
Special Teams and Coaching Outlook
Linebacker corps will include Popo Aguirre, AJ Richardson and Da'Kaari Nelson as projected starters, while the secondary will be manned by Brian Nelson II and Jackson Vick at cornerback. King Mack, arriving from Penn State, is expected to contribute at safety, adding depth to the back end.
Special teams will see Kanoah Vinesett return as the primary kicker, with Jackson Waller taking over punting duties after transferring from Arkansas State to replace Caden Noonkester.
Overall, the Wolfpack’s depth chart reflects a blend of proven talent and promising newcomers, all aimed at building on the momentum generated by a strong preseason and preparing for the season‑opening test against Virginia.