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Wolfpack Looks at Other Options After Etute Picks Virginia Tech

NC State lost three-star linebacker prospect Isi Etute to ACC rival Virginia Tech, but the Wolfpack still has plenty of attractive options available at the position in the Class of 2021

Isi Etute, a 6-foot-3, 205-pound linebacker from Virginia Beach, has chosen Virginia Tech over NC State and his other finalist West Virginia.

The three-star prospect announced his commitment to the Hokies on Saturday.

Etute's decision is obviously a disappointment for Wolfpack coach Dave Doeren and his staff, who put on a late charge for him after extending a scholarship offer on June 16. Etude's high school teammate Nate Evans is already a member of State's recruiting Class of 2021.

Losing Etute, however, is hardly a blow the Wolfpack can't overcome.

In fact, it could actually be looked at as a positive sign when as it pertains to the battle for another top linebacker prospect.

Jordan Poole of West Stanly High School in Oakboro, a four-star recruit and the top-rated linebacker in North Carolina, also had Virginia Tech in his top three. With the Hokies having landed a top linebacker in Etute, there's a possibility that the battle for Poole is now down to State and the Gamecocks.

The Wolfpack is considered the favorite for his services.

State already has one linebacker commitment for this year's cycle in three-star Ponte Vedra, Fla., native Caden Fordham. It is also high on the list of contenders for four-star outside linebacker Jabril McNeill, although like his brother -- current Wolfpack defnsive tackle Alim McNeill -- he will likely move up front onto the line.

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