NC State football loses running back to transfer portal. What to know
N.C. State football will unexpectedly lose a starter when the spring transfer portal window opens this week.
Running back Kendrick Raphael told On3 he planned to enter the portal and posted a photo on Instagram, showing himself making the “peace out” symbol. He has three seasons of eligibility remaining.
Raphael played two seasons with the Wolfpack. He totaled 871 yards of total offense, including 734 yards in the run game, and four rushing touchdowns. The sophomore averaged 5.1 yards per carry and 31.9 yards per game across the two years.
In his second season, Raphael’s usage and efficiency increased. He played in 12 games, recording 466 yards and three of his four touchdowns.
Originally from Naples, Florida, Raphael was expected to be a key returner in the fall. He signed with One Pack NIL in December, an agreement that is not legally binding, signaling his return. Raphael appeared in several social media posts from N.C. State spring practices, several as recently as April 4.
Raphael is one of 20 outgoing transfers this season. With his departure, the Wolfpack has six running backs on the roster. Hollywood Smothers, pending any changes, is still set to return.
The winter transfer portal window opened from Dec. 9-28. The spring portal window opens Wednesday and closes on April 25.
Coaches have been outspoken about the lack of portal regulations and challenges with roster management. Wolfpack head coach Dave Doeren spoke candidly earlier this season about the misalignment between the recruiting calendar and transfer portal windows.
In January, dozens of FBS head coaches met in Charlotte for the American Football Coaches Association annual meeting. They voted unanimously to create a single transfer portal window in early January. This was recommended by an NCAA committee last year, as well. No announcement has been made regarding potential approval.
N.C. State is set to open its 2025 season on Aug. 28 against East Carolina at Carter-Finley Stadium.
This story was originally published April 14, 2025 at 12:31 PM.
