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4h ago

CJ Bailey Announces Return to NC State for 2026 Season

The move preserves continuity for the Wolfpack offense after an 8-5 campaign capped by a Gasparilla Bowl win.

Sep 6, 2025; Raleigh, North Carolina, USA; North Carolina State Wolfpack quarterback CJ Bailey (11) prepares to throw the football during the first half of the game against Virginia Cavaliers at Carter-Finley Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jaylynn Nash-Imagn Images
Dec 19, 2025; Tampa, FL, USA; NC State Wolfpack quarterback CJ Bailey (11) throws a pass against the Memphis Tigers in the first quarter during the Gasparilla Bowl at Raymond James Stadium. Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images
Nov 2, 2024; Houston, Texas, USA; Kansas State Wildcats quarterback Avery Johnson (2) warms up before playing against the Houston Cougars at TDECU Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Thomas B. Shea-Imagn Images

Overview

  • Bailey confirmed his decision on Instagram with the message "Back with the Pack," shutting down transfer-portal speculation.
  • In 2025 he completed 68.8% of his passes for 3,105 yards with 25 touchdowns and nine interceptions, adding 215 rushing yards and six scores.
  • Across 25 career games, he has 5,518 passing yards and 42 touchdowns with 19 interceptions, plus 494 rushing yards and 11 rushing TDs.
  • He guided NC State to an 8-5 record that concluded with a 31-7 win over Memphis in the Gasparilla Bowl on Dec. 19.
  • Reporters noted he would have been a top transfer option, and his announcement came as other starters such as Kansas State’s Avery Johnson and Texas A&M’s Marcel Reed also said they will stay.