NC State adds pair of defensive line commitments to 2020 class

NC State picked up a couple of verbal commitments from visiting prospects over the weekend, both of ‘em defensive linemen. Defensive tackle Nick Booker-Brown and defensive end Claude Larkins committed to the Wolfpack on Sunday and will sign in February as members of the 2020 class.

NC State has had some spots open with guys entering the transfer portal, and State also lost a defensive line commit to Oregon during this cycle.

Booker-Brown is a former Boise State commitment who has some growing to do: he’s listed at 6’1 and 250 pounds by 247Sports, which makes him small by interior lineman standards. Here’s what 247 has to say about him:

Lacks ideal size for interior defensive lineman but compensates with impressive quickness at the snap and pursuit ability. Flashes close-quarters burst that allows him to knife gaps to disrupt plays in the backfield. Plays a naturally aggressive style. Occasionally capable of running down plays that don’t come his way. Best fits a one-gap scheme that allows him to attack more often than not. Lack of height and frame potential limit physical ceiling. Must harness motor and attacking style. Overpursues at times. Can continue to expand pass-rushing repertoire. High-end Group of 5 defensive line prospect with possible Power 5 ceiling in the right scheme.

Larkins is a Florida kid who committed to Minnesota over the summer but kept his options open and decided not to sign during the early period. He visited UCF in December and had been scheduled to visit Indiana this weekend. He holds offers from Baylor, Missouri, Arkansas, Maryland, Pitt, and West Virginia, among others.

NC State now has added three players to its 2020 class this month, which moved the group to 39th overall in the 247 Composite.