NC State’s offensive line took a hit before the season even got rolling, with tackle Jai’Lun Hampton ruled ineligible by the NCAA on Saturday.
Hampton, a 6-foot-8, 345-pound transfer who arrived in February as one of NC State’s final portal additions, won’t be able to play for the Wolfpack after the ruling. He was expected to give the team depth at tackle this season.
The former UT-Martin lineman had earned All-Big South honors last season, and NC State beat out interest from Texas, UCLA, Colorado State and UNC to land him in February.
Hampton addressed the situation in a statement posted on social media, explaining that his NCAA medical hardship waiver from his JUCO season was denied. He said the decision didn’t come down until after he had already taken part in spring football, which pushed him into his 10th semester of eligibility and left him ineligible to compete at both the Division II and Division I levels.
“Unfortunately, I've been informed that my NCAA medical hardship waiver from my JUCO season was denied. I wasn't made aware of the final decision until after I had already participated in spring football this semester. Because of that, it triggered my 10th semester of eligibility, making me ineligible to compete at the Division II level as well as Division I.
Football has been my first love and has truly changed my life. It has opened doors I never imagined, built lifelong relationships, and taught me lessons that I'll carry with me forever. While this isn't the outcome I hoped for, I trust that God's plan is greater than my own, and I know He never makes mistakes.
To every coach, teammate, trainer, mentor, family member, and supporter who has believed in me throughout this journey, thank you. Your encouragement, prayers, and unwavering support have meant everything to me. Every challenge, every setback, and every opportunity has helped shape the man I am today.
While my collegiate football career has come to an unexpected end, my football journey is far from over. I'll continue training, working, and preparing for the next opportunity as I pursue my dream of playing at the professional level. I know this setback doesn't define my future; it's simply another chapter in the story God is writing.”
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One name drawing more attention than it did a few months ago is Kamen Smith, the senior right guard who missed most of last season. There has been plenty of behind-the-scenes buzz about the progress he made this offseason, and the expectation around the program is that he will be a major factor for 2026. Even with that outlook, the guard picture is not fully settled, which is part of what makes this camp battle worth watching. [Read more 🡒]