NC State’s football program is gearing up for a pivotal 2026 campaign, aiming to rebound after a challenging previous season. The Wolfpack’s coaching staff emphasized a comprehensive reload, targeting both sides of the ball during the offseason.
A Dynamic Backfield
Davion Gause, a running back who previously starred at UNC, arrives in Raleigh bringing depth and versatility to the backfield. His 2025 performance included 259 yards and three touchdowns, and he still has two years of eligibility remaining, giving the team a reliable option for future seasons.
Speed and Playmaking on the Outside
Victor Snow, a wide receiver from Buffalo, adds a potent mix of speed and special‑teams value to the offense. Snow earned First‑Team All‑MAC honors in 2025 after posting 62 receptions for 815 yards and eight touchdowns, and his experience should stretch defenses.
JoJo Trader, another wide receiver from Miami, reunites with quarterback CJ Bailey, a connection that was forged in high school. The duo combined for 757 yards and 14 touchdowns in their final prep season, suggesting a chemistry that could translate into immediate impact on the Wolfpack’s passing attack.
Defensive Reinforcements
King Mack, a safety from Penn State, provides a reliable presence in the secondary. His 2025 statistics show just 67 yards allowed across 270 coverage snaps, underscoring his ability to limit big plays. Complementing him, Popo Aguirre, a linebacker from Miami, brings leadership and experience after appearing in all 16 games last season and carving out a top‑rotation role.
Harvey Dyson, an edge rusher from Tulane, fills a major hole in the pass rush. In 2025 he recorded 36 tackles, 11.5 tackles for loss, two forced fumbles and eight sacks, giving the defense a proven pass‑rushing threat.
A Freshman with Record‑Breaking Pedigree
Tyreek Copper, a true freshman, arrives with record‑breaking high school credentials. He set NCHSAA marks for receiving yards (2,245) and receiving touchdowns (33) in a single season, and his big‑play potential is expected to add a new dimension to the receiver group.
Beyond individual talent, the coaching staff’s focus on reloading both sides of the ball suggests a balanced approach to building depth. With a blend of seasoned transfers, proven playmakers and a highly touted freshman, the Wolfpack hope to translate these additions into a competitive edge as they aim for a stronger finish in the upcoming season.