NC State football signs 24 players in 2024 recruiting class, including big in-state flip

For college football coaches, “recruiting” has taken on a different connotation.

Coaches recruit the NCAA transfer portal, relentlessly. They re-recruit some of their own roster, swiftly.

Coaches also continue to recruit high school players, for so long the lifeblood of a program. Hopefully they can find a player who can have an instant impact as a true freshman – N.C. State’s Kevin “KC” Concepcion, to name one.

Wolfpack coach Dave Doeren announced Wednesday, on the early national signing day for football, that the Pack had signed 24 players for the Class of ‘24 including two from junior colleges.

“In the last three years recruiting has changed a lot, probably more so than it has in the last 30,” Doeren said. “It’s an important day. I’m excited about the group. It’s a balanced class, where we identified needs and met needs, and got very, very explosive in some spots where we needed help.”

There was one intriguing in-state flip to fire up social media: wide receiver Keenan Jackson, who first committed to North Carolina but signed with the Pack. Jackson played at Weddington High and put up big numbers – 102 receptions, 1,700 yards, 19 touchdowns – this season for the 4A champions, who won the state title game at Carter-Finley Stadium and allowed Jackson another look-around.

“Big one right here. Ground’s shaking,” a laughing Doeren said on an NCSU video clip as he posted Jackson’s name on the big recruiting board.

The Wolfpack, 9-3 this season and headed to the Pop-Tarts Bowl, loaded up at wide receiver: Jackson, Terrell Anderson, Jimmar Boston, Christian Zachary and Jonathan Paylor, who offers versatility at several spots.

It was well past noon before 6-7 quarterback Cedrick Bailey, from Hollywood, Florida, officially became the last NCSU commit to sign his national letter.

“Another state champion,” Doeren said. “Tall, can throw, can escape. He’s a leader and has kind of a charismatic attitude.”

The Pack brought in an exciting linebacker prospect in Elijah Groves from Cross Plains, Tennessee, but also signed Joshua Ofer, Zane Williams and Cannon Lewis while bringing in Wyatt Wright from Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College.

N.C. State’s class was ranked 27th nationally by 247Sports. The Pack did not have a player decommit during the recruiting period leading up to signing day.

“Obviously you’ve seen what we can do with freshmen,” Doeren said “Some of these guys are coming with that in mind. They want to contribute early.”

Top-rated recruit

Terrell Anderson WR: The Greensboro Grimsley star picked the Pack over Tennessee and Michigan and got a late push from Georgia. A big threat catching the ball and on kick returns, he had 1,534 all-purpose yards in 2023.

Doeren on Anderson: “Really skilled guy, also a great returner. Outside receiver. Tough. As impressive a blocker as he was a playmaker.”

Player who could impact early

Jonathan Paylor, ATH: Paylor rushed for 2,378 yards and 30 TDs this season and had 25 grabs for another three scores. Seems like a good fit to Robert Anae’s offense and Doeren compares him to both Concepcion and former Pack star Nyheim Hines.

Doeren on Paylor: “Mr. Football, Jonathan Paylor, can do a lot. He can play running back, can play receiver, can returns kicks and punts.”

Most intriguing recruit

Keenan Jackson WR: Was headed to North Carolina before flipping to the Wolfpack. Decommited from UNC on Tuesday, announcing it on social media, and signed with the Pack.

Doeren on Jackson: “I told our staff when he left our (summer) camp ... that is a player we have to find a way to get. He’s one of the best players and kids I’ve been around. His demeanor, his competitive spirit.”

Top local recruit

Zane Williams LB: Williams has been compared to former Pack linebacker Drake Thomas. Local recruit, similar size. Played at Wake Forest High. Tenacious type. Now, can he match Thomas’ play at NCSU?

Signed players