NC State Adds Late Transfer Portal Duo to Roster

Wolfpack bolsters depth with QB and OT additions ahead of critical 2026 season.

Feb. 19, 2026 at 12:23am

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NC State's football team has added a pair of late transfer portal pickups in quarterback Tad Hudson from Coastal Carolina and offensive tackle Jai'Lun Hampton from UT-Martin. The Wolfpack have now brought in 20 transfer players this offseason as they gear up for a critical 2026 campaign.

Why it matters

NC State is looking to build on a strong 2025 season and make a push for the ACC title in 2026. Adding experienced transfers like Hudson and Hampton provides valuable depth and competition at key positions as the Wolfpack aim to contend in the conference.

The details

Head coach Dave Doeren and his staff have been active in the transfer portal this offseason, bringing in 20 new players to bolster the roster. The latest additions are Hudson, a quarterback from Coastal Carolina, and Hampton, an offensive tackle from UT-Martin. These late pickups provide depth and competition at the QB and OT spots as NC State prepares for the upcoming season.

  • NC State added Tad Hudson on Sunday, February 16, 2026.
  • The Wolfpack added Jai'Lun Hampton on Monday, February 17, 2026.

The players

Tad Hudson

A transfer quarterback from Coastal Carolina who will provide depth and competition at the position for NC State.

Jai'Lun Hampton

A transfer offensive tackle from UT-Martin who will bolster the Wolfpack's offensive line depth.

Dave Doeren

The head coach of the NC State football team, who has been active in the transfer portal this offseason to build the roster.

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What they’re saying

“We're excited to add Tad and Jai'Lun to our roster. They both bring valuable experience and talent that will help us compete at a high level this season.”

— Dave Doeren, Head Coach

What’s next

NC State will continue to evaluate the roster and may look to add more transfer talent before the start of the 2026 season.

The takeaway

NC State's active approach in the transfer portal this offseason demonstrates their commitment to building a roster capable of contending for an ACC championship in 2026.