With the regular season now in the books, college football is bracing for a flurry of activity in the transfer portal. Among the early names making headlines is NC State’s standout sophomore wide receiver, Kevin Concepcion, who is set to enter the portal after two seasons with the Wolfpack.
After a stellar freshman season in 2023, where he hauled in 71 passes for 839 yards and 10 touchdowns while adding 320 rushing yards as a versatile offensive weapon, the wideout’s role diminished significantly in 2024. Struggles at the quarterback position limited his production, leading to his decision to explore other opportunities.
NC State entered the year with high hopes behind transfer quarterback Grayson McCall, who joined the program after a successful stint at Coastal Carolina. However, McCall suffered a season-ending injury midway through the season, leaving head coach Dave Doeren to turn to freshman CJ Bailey for the remainder of the year.
Standing at 6 feet tall and weighing 170 pounds, Concepcion will enter the portal with two years of eligibility remaining. As a high school prospect, he was ranked as the No. 590 overall player and No. 90 wide receiver in the 2023 class, according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a composite that combines ratings from all major recruiting services.
What's a team getting in Kevin Concepcion?
— SleeperCFB (@SleeperCFB) December 1, 2024
Take a look 📼
The Wolfpack WR has logged
🐺 1,299 Yards
🐺 18 TDs@SSN_NCState X @PackPride
pic.twitter.com/d8GQkbZMJ4
The college football transfer portal officially opens Monday, Dec. 9, 2024, the day after the College Football Playoff field and bowl games are announced. Players will have 30 days to enter the portal, with the window closing on Dec. 28.
As one of NC State’s most talented playmakers in recent years, Concepcion is expected to draw significant interest from programs looking for a dynamic offensive threat. His decision to leave highlights the challenges many programs face in retaining talent amid quarterback instability and changing roles.
NC State wrapped up its 2024 regular season at 6-6 overall and 3-5 in the ACC, closing out with a thrilling 35-30 victory over in-state rival North Carolina. The game, which marked Mack Brown’s last as the Tar Heels’ head coach, saw Concepcion contribute three catches for 44 yards and a touchdown in a winning effort.