Q&A: NC State Commit Christian Freeman on Loyalty, Family Roots, and His Decision to Stay Home

2027 running back Christian Freeman was the first domino to fall in NC State’s recruiting class, committing to the Wolfpack on July 4th of last year.

For NC State, keeping Freeman home was a priority from the start. The Southeast Raleigh product is one of the top local talents in the class, and he backed that up with production.

This past season, Freeman rushed for 1,236 yards and 15 touchdowns as a junior, averaging an explosive 9.1 yards per carry. He also added 25 receptions for 376 yards and 6 touchdowns, showcasing his versatility as a playmaker.

I recently caught up with Freeman to talk about his early commitment, his roots as a Wolfpack fan, and why he’s locked in on staying home.

Conversation

Pack Pride: NC State was your first Power 4 offer. After picking it up at camp, you committed a month later on July 4th. What were your reasons for committing so early?

Freeman: My reason for committing so early was because I always told my self that my first P4 school would have my best interest. All the coaches had great energy towards me on camp day, and it was like they already knew who I was when I walked on campus. Coach Goebbel was so excited to see me, and really gave me input throughout the drills. Also NC State has a strong engineering program, and that’s what I intend to do when footballs over.

Pack Pride: You grew up an Wolfpack fan right down the road from NC State. How did you become an NC State fan? What’s your favorite memory as an NC State fan growing up? Do you have a favorite NC State player?

Freeman: NC State was a big thing in my family, for my dad. As long as I can remember he was an NC State fan. My favorite memory growing up, is when I was younger, around 8-9 years old, I went to a camp NC State was hosting. I still have the picture from that day. Duuuukkeee!! Is my favorite player right now.

Pack Pride: Committing early hasn’t prevented other schools from continuing to recruit you. How have you handled that, and what is your response to them?

Freeman: I always tell school state is my #1 priority.

Pack Pride: You saw significant gains from your sophomore to junior year. What were your most significant areas of growth as a player and leader?

Freeman: The areas I grew the most were definitely getting on the track and competing against some of the fastest people in the state. Taking recovery serious. Always stacking each day and having the mindset to get better 1% every day. As a leader, I joined different leadership programs, taking field trips here and there.

Pack Pride: How important are academics for you, and what NC State uniquely offers academically?

Freeman: Academics are very important to me. I been on A/B honor roll all of high-school, and I will continue to do so. NC state offers me one of the best educations in the country for engineering. It’s a Top-5 school in the country for it. I also spoke with coaches, and was informed my freshman year I would have counseling to make sure I’m passing and staying on top of my grades.

Pack Pride: What has made NC State’s approach at recruiting you unique in this process?

Freeman: The conversations I have with all the coaches. Especially my position coach, Coach Goebbel. We communicate throughout the week, and he stays updated with me all the time. He makes me feel like I’m a priority to State, and makes me feel good as a person. All the coaches are always excited when they see me, and it just feels like the right environment to be in.