A Lot of Things Are New for Grayson McCall at NC State, but Leadership isn’t One of Them

NC State’s Quarterback will be Grayson McCall in 2024, who transferred to NC State from Coastal Carolina this offseason. On Tuesday, he stepped on to the field for the first time in a red jersey, and it was the first time on the field in awhile, after suffering an injury last Fall.

“It felt great to get back out there. I got injured about halfway through the season last year. I haven’t had the helmet on in awhile, but really blessed to have the opportunity to come out here,” said McCall. “Obviously a little different wearing the red, and a new jersey number, but just an awesome feeling to be out here with the guys to get going. I’m really excited about this Spring and what we’re going to build.”

After being named the Sun Belt Player of the Year in 3 consecutive seasons, McCall only played 7 games last season before suffering a season ending injury.

When arriving in Raleigh, it wasn’t just the colors that were new to McCall, but the number on the back of his jersey was new as well. McCall had previously worn the #10 at Coastal, but that number just so happens to be worn by Wide Receiver sensation Kevin Concepcion. When McCall committed to NC State, Concepcion offered him the #10 jersey, but McCall declined.

“The #2 was one of the numbers available, so that’s what I went with. I’ve worn the #10 jersey for the past 8 or 9 years, so it will look a little weird on tape seeing myself in the #2 for the first time,” said McCall. “A number is a number. It is what it is. I’m just happy to be here. Happy coach has allowed me to wear a jersey with NC State across the chest. Truly blessed to be here.”

New colors. New number. You can also add a new offense to the list as well. Since arriving in Raleigh, McCall has been trying to learn Robert Anae’s offense bit by bit.

“It’s learning a new offense…a new system…new terminology. Taking new coaching. It’s been awesome so far. The transition has been really smooth,” said McCall. “I like the different things we’re able to do. Today was obviously Day 1, a small bit of install of the things that we do. We’re doing a lot of different things with motions and shifts, getting different guys the ball, and you put some Quarterback run into it, so really excited about what we’re going to do on offense.”

It’s not easy to join a new team, with a new culture, and with new coaches. That’s challenging as it is, but it’s even more challenging to be expected to step right in and be a leader, but according to head coach Dave Doeren, McCall is a natural leader, and it’s evident to everyone.

“The first thing you see in Grayson McCall is confidence. You can tell he’s won a lot of games. He’s comfortable as a leader. He has no problem being vocal. He learns quickly,” said Doeren. “I like how he handles adversity. If he has a bad play, it’s on to the next play. There’s no body language issues, and I like that about him. He’s a natural leader. He knows who he is. The guys around him can feel that. It oozes out of him.”