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NC State Football No Longer Slated to Host In-State Five-Star

The lack of a final visit probably doesn't bode well for NC State football's shot at winning the Faizon Brandon sweepstakes.

Matt Giles

NC State football mascot
NC State football mascot / Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports
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Earlier this week, NC State football head coach Dave Doeren and his staff were reportedly on tap to welcome Faizon Brandon back to campus for another visit as the Grimsley High School (Ga.) five-star signal caller prepares to announce a winner in his high-profile recruitment.

But that no longer appears to be the case.

Just over a month ago, the 6-foot-4, 195-pound rising junior, No. 31 overall on the 247Sports 2026 Composite, revealed four finalists: NC State, Tennessee, Alabama, and LSU. And Brandon set a decision date for Aug. 3, a week from Saturday.

According to a post from Rivals' Dale Dowden, who checked in with the coveted dual-threat quarterback at Grimsley on Thursday, Faizon Brandon "will visit Tennessee [on Friday] and plans to also visit Bama and LSU prior to his announcement."

Although Brandon visited the Wolfpack in June, in addition to visits with his other finalists, it now looks as though Doeren and his crew are the least likely of the four to come out on top.

Tennessee remains the perceived frontrunner with both entered 247Sports Crystal Ball predictions.

Meanwhile, the deep 2026 NC State football offer sheet, including Faizon Brandon and nine more quarterback prospects, has yet to yield its first commitment for the Wolfpack.

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Matt Giles

MATT GILES

Matt Giles is the editor and publisher of NC State Wolfpack on SI, Duke Blue Devils on SI, and North Carolina Tar Heels on SI, making him a key source for comprehensive coverage of these storied college basketball programs. Since joining NC State Wolfpack on SI in 2024, Matt has been dedicated to providing in-depth analysis, breaking news, and exclusive content on all three teams. He covers everything from game previews and recaps to player profiles and recruiting updates. Matt's expert knowledge of these teams has made his work a go-to resource for fans and followers of Duke, NC State, and UNC. As publisher, he shapes the editorial direction, ensuring that the most relevant and timely information reaches his audience.

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