NC State Football Now Challenging Duke in Pursuit of In-State Safety
In this story:
Lyrik Pettis, a promising 2026 safety at Crest High School in Shelby, N.C., has yet to receive either a ranking or rating by his name on major recruiting sites. That said, the 6-foot-1, 175-pound zippy talent has already racked up almost a dozen offers in his recruitment. And as of Monday evening, that growing offer sheet includes the NC State football program.
ALSO READ: Four-Star 2026 Recruit Eliminates NC State From Contention
He advertised the offer via the following post on social media:
NC STATE OFFERED‼️@CoachCwarren @omarporter1 @MarquietP @Kjaariahdad @CoachSkipYoung @coachftiii @clintbrew247 pic.twitter.com/Y7sfDY3kpm
— lyrik pettis (@PettisLyrik) January 20, 2025
Wolfpack head coach Dave Doeren and his staff become Pettis' second suitor from the ACC, as Manny Diaz and his Duke Blue Devils officially entered the fray with an offer back in April, indicating he's been worthy of such attention for quite some time. His other reported offers are from Charlotte, Appalachian State, East Carolina, Liberty, Miami (Ohio), Norfolk State, The Citadel, and West Virginia.
As things stand, NC State football boasts two early prizes on the 2026 recruiting trail, including one of the in-state variety in Reagan High School (N.C.) three-star quarterback Reagan Smith. The other Wolfpack pledge in the cycle is Trinity Episcopal School (Va.) three-star offensive tackle Brady Sakowitz.
Smith announced his commitment to Doeren & Co. back in early August, followed by Sakowitz just over two months later.
ALSO READ: Wolfpack Enters Mix for Four-Star Linebacker Cam Thomas
Stay tuned to NC State Wolfpack On SI for more NC State football recruiting news.
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.
Follow MattGilesBD