Up-and-Coming Linebacker Zykir Moore Commits to NC State

NC State defensive coordinator D.J. Eliot continues to strengthen his linebacker corps with the addition of Zykir Moore, a promising prospect from Pittsburgh (Pa.) Woodland Hills. Moore, an unranked but highly pursued defender, announced his commitment to the Wolfpack on Saturday evening following his official visit to Raleigh from June 13-15.

Moore chose NC State over a group of finalists that included Boston College, Toledo, Syracuse, and UConn. His only other official visit was to Toledo the weekend before he traveled to NC State, but the experience in Raleigh clearly resonated—he opted to shut down his recruitment and forgo additional visits scheduled for the remainder of June.

At 6-foot-2 and 215 pounds, Moore showed two-way versatility as a sophomore, tallying 99 tackles (15 for loss) and scoring 13 touchdowns on offense. His junior year was unfortunately cut short by a season-ending ankle injury in the first game of 2024. Despite the setback, NC State kept him high on their board, extending an offer in March and bringing him in for one of their key official visit weekends this summer.

A standout in Pennsylvania’s WPIAL, Moore now has the chance to rebound as a senior and further develop before making the jump to college football. His commitment highlights NC State’s continued push to recruit top talent from the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast regions under Eliot’s leadership.

Moore becomes the ninth commitment in NC State’s 2026 class. He joins a defensive group that includes Locust Grove (Ga.) Luella three-star safety Markel Aguirre, Winter Park (Fla.) three-star cornerback Jordan Jackson, IMG Academy (Fla.) three-star defensive lineman Carmelo McKenzie, Paramus (N.J.) Catholic three-star linebacker Jordan Moreta, and Milford Mill Academy (Md.) three-star safety Koby Sarkodie.

On the offensive side, the Wolfpack’s 2026 class features Buford (Ga.) three-star running back Dylan McCoy, Trinity Episcopal (Va.) three-star offensive tackle Brady Sakowitz, and Reagan (N.C.) three-star quarterback Jacob Smith.