Transfer Jai'Lun Hampton Ready to Join NC State

Offensive tackle graduate transfer from Tennessee-Martin signs with Wolfpack

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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Jai'Lun Hampton, a 6-foot-9, 335-pound offensive tackle and graduate transfer from the University of Tennessee-Martin, has signed with NC State. Hampton, a second-team All-Ohio Valley performer in 2022, will officially visit the Wolfpack on March 1-3 and hopes to watch the Duke at NC State basketball game during his trip.

Why it matters

Hampton's addition provides a major boost to the NC State offensive line, which lost several starters from last season. As a graduate transfer, Hampton brings valuable experience and talent that should help the Wolfpack compete in the ACC.

The details

Hampton started talking with NC State offensive line coach Garett Tujague in early February after entering the transfer portal on January 10. He signed with the Wolfpack on Monday, though he'll still take his official visit in early March. Hampton, who has played both left and right tackle, had a PFF grade of 67.6 last season with 69.4 on pass blocking and 64.9 on run blocking. He allowed 3 sacks and 10 hurries in 733 snaps.

  • Hampton entered the transfer portal on January 10, 2026.
  • Hampton signed with NC State on February 18, 2026.
  • Hampton will officially visit NC State on March 1-3, 2026.

The players

Jai'Lun Hampton

A 6-foot-9, 335-pound offensive tackle and graduate transfer from the University of Tennessee-Martin, where he was a second-team All-Ohio Valley performer in 2022.

Garett Tujague

The offensive line coach at NC State who recruited Hampton to join the Wolfpack.

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What they’re saying

“It was a place I felt like would be a good fit for me, honestly. Just the way they were going to help me on and off the field, realistically.”

— Jai'Lun Hampton, Offensive Tackle (on3.com)

“I do whatever coach thinks is the best fit. All players want to be on the field, helping and contributing to winning. I'll play whatever gets me on the field. I'll probably play both tackle spots for sure, maybe even guard. Definitely not center. I'm too big for that.”

— Jai'Lun Hampton, Offensive Tackle (on3.com)

What’s next

Hampton plans to make the move to Raleigh before joining the NC State program in May. He is still working out the details of his arrival date, but says the sooner the better.

The takeaway

Hampton's addition to the NC State offensive line provides a major boost in experience and talent as the Wolfpack look to compete in the ACC. His versatility to play multiple positions along the line will be valuable as the team replaces several starters from last season.