Jimbo Fisher Says NC State QB CJ Bailey Has “No. 1 Overall Pick” Potential

Former Florida State head coach Jimbo Fisher had high praise for NC State quarterback CJ Bailey during a recent appearance on ACC Huddle, and his comments turned heads across the conference.

While ON3 recently ranked Bailey No. 90 overall in its Way-Too-Early Top 100 for the 2026 season – including 14th among quarterbacks and 10th in the ACC – Fisher believes the Wolfpack signal caller has the tools to become something even bigger.

In fact, Fisher said Bailey has the makings of a future No. 1 overall NFL Draft pick.

What Jimbo Fisher Said About CJ Bailey

Speaking with Eric Mac Lain, Fisher didn’t hold back:

“Anytime you’ve got CJ Bailey, you’ve got a chance. We were talking about Darren Vincent being the first pick of the draft – it’s not unforeseen to see this guy be the first pick of the draft.”

Fisher went on to explain what separates Bailey from most quarterbacks at his size:

“You always worry about quarterbacks getting too big. He’s 6’7”, but he runs like he’s 6’1”. He’s twitchy, he’s fast, the ball comes out quickly, and he’s not long or slow in his movement.

This guy just keeps getting better and better. You can’t put a price tag on size and vision like that — and when you add mobility, he becomes extremely dangerous.”

Fisher finished by calling Bailey “one of the best players in all of America”, adding that he’s one of his favorite quarterbacks to watch.

Why Fisher Might Be Right

Fisher’s evaluation lines up with what NC State fans have seen over the past two seasons.

Bailey, who took over as the Wolfpack’s starter as an 18-year-old true freshman, has steadily grown into one of the most intriguing quarterbacks in the country. His combination of size, mobility, and arm strength is rare, and his comfort operating outside the pocket took a noticeable leap forward this past season.

At 6’7”, Bailey possesses prototype NFL size, but unlike many quarterbacks his height, he moves fluidly and can create plays with his legs. When his mechanics are in sync, his arm talent allows him to make throws few quarterbacks at the college level can attempt.

And perhaps most importantly – he’s still young.

Bailey just completed his sophomore season, meaning his best football is likely still ahead of him.

What It Means for NC State

NC State has a strong history of developing quarterbacks for the next level, and Bailey appears to be next in line.

If his growth continues at its current pace, the Wolfpack could be looking at:

• One of the ACC’s top quarterbacks
• A potential first-round NFL Draft pick
• A legitimate Heisman dark horse down the line

As Fisher put it – when you have a player like CJ Bailey, you always have a chance.