James Smith-Williams to Wear No. 1 Jersey for NC State in 2019

RALEIGH, N.C. – Since 2014, NC State head coach Dave Doeren has recognized a member of the Wolfpack football team for his work ethic, character, leadership and accomplishments by giving them the No. 1 jersey.  In a team meeting today, Doeren announced that graduate defensive end James Smith-Williams will don that special number for the 2019 season.

Smith-Williams, who started every game he played during the 2018 season, graduated in December with a degree in business supply chain management and a 3.0+ GPA. He tallied 9.5 tackles for loss and six sacks, while also earning Academic All-ACC honors. His diligence in the Wolfpack’s strength and conditioning program has helped him gain 60 lbs. since his freshman campaign. 

The Raleigh native spent last summer working as a paid intern for IBM and that prestigious corporation has already offered him a full-time job whenever his football career is complete. He also serves as vice president of NC State Athletics’ Student-Athlete Advisory Council. 

“Our goal as a program is to help our players chase two dreams: life with football and life without football; and to develop them academically, athletically and socially,” said Doeren. “James has grown and excelled in those areas. He has been a tremendous leader for us, has always made great decisions and has done things the right way on and off the field. I’m very proud to see his hard work pay off and look forward to seeing him continue to improve this season.”

Last season, wide receiver Stephen Louis, who had undergone two shoulder surgeries, wore the honored jersey. Two-time All-ACC all-purpose back Jaylen Samuels wore No. 1 in 2016 and 2017, while senior Hakim Jones was honored in 2015.  Safety Jarvis Byrd, who had come back from three torn ACLs to play his senior campaign, wore No. 1 for the 2014 season.