NC State QB CJ Bailey will be Returning in 2025!

CJ Bailey just announced that he will be returning to NC State in 2025 for his Sophomore season.

Bailey was expected to redshirt his first season in Raleigh, but after Redshirt Senior Grayson McCall was injured in the 3rd game of the season against Louisiana Tech, he had to come out of the bullpen. With McCall out, Bailey started the next two games after McCall recovered from a concussion.

McCall returned to start against Wake Forest, but tragically was knocked out of the game with a horrific concussion, and Bailey had to come in once again.

After Bailey played in the game against the Demon Deacons, he had officially played in 5 games, burning his Redshirt.

Ultimately, on October 23rd, after NC State defeated Cal on the road, McCall made the hard decision to retire from the game of football, officially handing the reins of the Quarterback position for the 2024 season to Bailey.

Bailey showed poise and confidence, and the ability to handle adversity throughout his True Freshman season. He also showed that he possessed the essential tools of accuracy, combined with a powerful arm. It was clear the arm talent was there.

Was Bailey perfect? Of course not.

But it was clear that Bailey was the Quarterback of the future for NC State, if he decided to return in 2025.

Through the regular season, Bailey has completed 64.1% of his passes for 2,183 yards and 14 touchdowns (9 interceptions). He also has rushed for 255 yards and 5 touchdowns. Bailey’s Passing Efficiency Rating of 140.8 might be his most impressive statistic.

Soon as the regular season ended on Saturday, NC State’s NIL collective began having meetings with players on Sunday. Bailey was the most important player for the Wolfpack to retain heading into next season.

Mission accomplished.

If you would like to contribute to Savage Wolves, click here.