NC State Lands 3-Star Cornerback AK Crumel

NC State added another in-state prospect to its 2027 recruiting class on Friday evening, as three-star cornerback AK Crumel announced his commitment to the Wolfpack.

How Clayton (N.C.) High senior cornerback Akedran Crumel announced for NC State via @dev_the_creator: pic.twitter.com/chjkEeBw2o

— Jacey Zembal (@NCStateRivals) July 24, 2026

The Clayton High School standout gives NC State another important recruiting win close to home, continuing the program’s emphasis on keeping top North Carolina talent in-state.

Another Clayton Star Headed to Raleigh

Crumel becomes the second recent Clayton High School standout to choose NC State.

He’ll follow Aiden Smalls, who will be a Freshman with the Wolfpack this Fall.

While Smalls was listed as a wide receiver upon arriving in Raleigh, he starred at Clayton as a versatile offensive weapon, playing quarterback, running back, and wide receiver.

Now the Comets will send another highly regarded prospect to Carter-Finley Stadium.

Longtime Priority for the Wolfpack

NC State identified Crumel early in the recruiting process.

The Wolfpack extended an offer on May 16, 2024, making him one of the program’s longest-standing priorities in the 2027 class.

That early investment ultimately paid off.

Despite a lengthy list of Power Four offers, Crumel chose NC State over a final group that included:

Virginia Tech
SMU
Georgia Tech

National Recruitment

Crumel’s offer sheet reflects just how highly regarded he is nationally.

Among the programs that offered the North Carolina defensive back were:

Ohio State
Southern Cal
Miami
Florida State
Tennessee
Ole Miss
South Carolina
North Carolina
Maryland
Wisconsin
Kentucky
Arkansas
Louisville
Michigan State
Duke
Virginia Tech
SMU
Georgia Tech

When programs like Ohio State, Miami, Tennessee, Florida State, USC, Ole Miss, and others all pursue the same player, it’s a strong indication of his potential.

One of North Carolina’s Top Prospects

Crumel is considered a consensus three-star recruit.

Rivals currently ranks him as the No. 21 overall player in North Carolina (2027).

As one of the state’s top defensive backs, he has been on the radar of major programs for well over a year.

Productive Junior Season

Crumel backed up his recruiting reputation with a strong season at Clayton High School.

2025 Statistics

39 tackles
4 interceptions
4 pass breakups

His ability to create turnovers while remaining active in run support helped establish him as one of North Carolina’s top defensive back prospects.

Continuing the In-State Recruiting Success

Keeping the best players in North Carolina has long been a priority for NC State’s coaching staff.

Landing Crumel continues that trend.

The Wolfpack not only secured a commitment from one of the state’s top defensive backs but also beat out several ACC and national programs to do it.

Those victories often become especially important when building long-term recruiting momentum within the state.

Junior Highlights