N.C. State football has a mix of returning starters and additions from the transfer portal entering the 2025 season.

Quarterback CJ Bailey , defensive lineman Brandon Cleveland, linebacker Caden Fordham and tight end Justin Joly are among the Wolfpack ’s top returners in Dave Doeren ’s 13th season as head coach.

Coming off a 6-7 record, its first losing season since 2019, N.C. State kicks off the 2025 campaign against in-state rival East Carolina on Thursday, Aug. 28 (7 p.m., ACC Network), at Carter-Finley Stadium. The Wolfpack will try to posts its fifth winning record in the last six seasons. Buy NC State football tickets

NC State football important players, ranked

Here are the most important players to watch for the 2025 N.C. State football season.

5. DB Brian Nelson II

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