Former Norfolk State All-American Linebacker AJ Richardson Signs his NLI to Play for NC State

Today is National Signing Day for the 2025 Football Recruiting Class. Back on December 6th, NC State signed 17 players on the Early National Signing Day.

Former Norfolk State All-American Linebacker AJ Richardson (6’1″/245) signed his National Letter of Intent to play football for NC State today. He announced he was transferring to run with the Wolfpack on Christmas day.

Welcome to Raleigh, AJ!#1Pack1Goal pic.twitter.com/RXO0L5N3A8

— NC State Football (@PackFootball) February 5, 2025

Richardson was a 3-Star prospect in the Transfer Portal this offseason.

Richardson was lights out in his first two years at Norfolk State. This season he earned 1st Team All-MEAC honors, after earning FCS Freshman All-American Honors in 2023. As a Freshman, Richardson earned 2nd Team All-MEAC honors.

In 2023, Richardson had 69 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, 2 sacks, 2 pass breakups, 3 forced fumbles and 1 fumble recovery. His PFF grade was 73.9.

This year, Richardson led the Spartans in tackles (100), tackles for loss (9.5) and sacks (3). His PFF grade was 79.1. Richardson’s Run Grade was an elite 83.8.

After entering the Portal, Richardson picked up offers from NC State, Western Kentucky, UTEP, UMASS, ECU, Tennessee Tech, Gardner Webb, ETSU and Alcorn.

Richardson has 2 years of eligibility remaining.