Two NC State players earn NFL Combine invites

Wolfpack tight end Justin Joly and defensive lineman Brandon Cleveland to showcase skills at annual pre-draft event

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Two NC State seniors, tight end Justin Joly and defensive lineman Brandon Cleveland, have received invitations to participate in the upcoming NFL Combine in Indianapolis. The annual pre-draft event allows top college football prospects to showcase their skills for professional scouts ahead of the NFL Draft in April.

Why it matters

The NFL Combine is a crucial step in the path to the professional ranks, providing players a chance to improve their draft stock through impressive performances in various drills and interviews. Joly and Cleveland's invitations highlight the talent on NC State's roster and the program's ability to develop players who can compete at the highest level.

The details

Joly, a transfer from Connecticut, solidified himself as one of the top receiving tight ends in the nation during his two seasons with the Wolfpack. He finished his career with 1,129 receiving yards and 11 touchdowns, earning All-ACC first-team honors in 2025. Meanwhile, Cleveland spent four seasons at NC State, recording 107 tackles, six sacks, two forced fumbles, and a pass breakup as a nose tackle. He was also praised for his leadership and community service work, being nominated for the Allstate Wuerffel Trophy.

  • The NFL Combine is scheduled for February 26 - March 1, 2026 in Indianapolis.
  • The 2026 NFL Draft is set for April 23-25 in Pittsburgh.

The players

Justin Joly

A senior tight end for NC State who transferred from Connecticut and established himself as one of the top receiving tight ends in the nation, finishing his career with 1,129 yards and 11 touchdowns.

Brandon Cleveland

A four-year senior defensive lineman at NC State who recorded 107 tackles, six sacks, two forced fumbles, and a pass breakup in his Wolfpack career. He was also praised for his leadership and community service work.

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What they’re saying

“Whatever I have my mind set on, I'm usually good at obtaining. Obviously I wasn't recruited highly, but it doesn't matter to me. As long as you give me the chance, I'll take it.”

— Justin Joly (ACC Kickoff)

“Brandon Cleveland is a great guy. He's gonna cause a lot of disruption, especially in the inside run and inside pocket.”

— CJ Bailey, NC State quarterback (Last summer)

“He has an NFL mindset. He coached in the NFL, so how he goes about his business is legit. It's great to have an NFL coach that's been with the (Philadelphia) Eagles and the best of the best. ... We're in college, but you want to prepare like you're in the pros, because that's what we're trying to get to.”

— Brandon Cleveland (Last season)

What’s next

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The takeaway

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