NC State Recruiting Heats Up in 2026 Cycle: Three Prospects to Watch
RALEIGH, N.C. — Recruiting is the lifeblood of college football, and for NC State, the 2026 cycle is shaping up to be a pivotal one. Since June 1, the Wolfpack have secured double-digit commitments, marking a strong summer push. However, there’s still work to be done as the staff looks to close on key targets heading into the fall.
Pack Pride takes a look at three uncommitted prospects who could be next to join the Wolfpack’s 2026 class.
Brody Smith | OT | Maryville (Tenn.)
NC State has been in hot pursuit of offensive tackle Brody Smith, and for good reason. The 6-foot-5 ½, 265-pound prospect out of Knoxville (Tenn.) Maryville has been a top priority for offensive line coach Garett Tujague since offering him nearly 18 months ago. That early offer laid the groundwork for what has since become a strong relationship between Smith and the Wolfpack.
Tujague’s personal involvement and consistent communication have made NC State a legitimate contender for the athletic lineman, who brings size, flexibility, and upside to the position. While several schools remain in the mix, sources tell Pack Pride that the Pack are trending in the right direction with Smith.
Xavier Cunningham | DB | Greensboro (N.C.) Dudley
One of the top in-state defensive backs in the 2026 class, Xavier Cunningham has been firmly on NC State’s radar for more than a year. The Dudley High standout brings a versatile skill set—capable of playing corner, nickel, or safety—and has impressed with his instincts, physicality, and ball skills.
Cunningham has already visited Raleigh multiple times and speaks highly of the Wolfpack’s culture and defensive staff, particularly defensive backs coach Joe DeForest. With several Power Five programs now showing interest, State has maintained a strong position due to its early and consistent recruitment. A decision could come before the end of summer, and NC State is viewed as one of the frontrunners.
Jayden Thomas | WR | Fort Mill (S.C.) Catawba Ridge
Speed, separation, and sure hands have made Jayden Thomas one of the more dynamic wide receiver prospects in the Carolinas. At 6-foot-1, 180 pounds, Thomas has been a major playmaker on the 7-on-7 circuit this offseason and continues to rise up recruiting boards.
Wide receivers coach Joker Phillips has taken the lead on Thomas’s recruitment and has made the South Carolina standout feel like a top priority. Thomas visited NC State in June and came away impressed with the team’s offensive philosophy and the opportunity to play early in a system that values speed in space. While competition is heating up—particularly from Virginia Tech and South Carolina—the Wolfpack are firmly in the mix.
What’s Next
With momentum building and official visits on the horizon, NC State’s 2026 class is starting to take shape. Adding commitments from prospects like Brody Smith, Xavier Cunningham, and Jayden Thomas would elevate the class even further—and help solidify key positional needs across the board.
Stay tuned to Pack Pride for continued coverage as the Wolfpack’s summer recruiting run continues.
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