The Wolfpack lost one of its star defensive linemen in the 2026 draft class, but Cleveland should go on to a solid professional career.
RALEIGH — One of NC State Wolfpack football’s top defensive performers over the past two seasons is moving on to the next level. Former nose guard Brandon Cleveland was taken with the No. 229 overall pick in the seventh round of the 2026 NFL Draft by the Las Vegas Raiders, making him the second Wolfpack player selected during Saturday’s action.
While Cleveland didn’t always produce eye-popping statistics like some previous NC State defensive draftees, his presence in the trenches was a major factor during his junior and senior years in Raleigh. He leaves as one of the most impactful recent defenders under head coach Dave Doeren.
Looking back at Cleveland’s Wolfpack career and impact
The Tampa, Florida native came to North Carolina State University as a four-star prospect, per Rivals, bringing an impressive high school résumé to Raleigh. At Carrollwood Day School, he recorded 211 tackles, 73 tackles for loss, and 32.5 sacks, along with a pair of interceptions—making it clear to head coach Dave Doeren and his staff that they had found a key piece for the interior defensive line.
Over four years, Cleveland developed physically, finishing his senior season at 6-foot-2 and 322 pounds. During his time with the Wolfpack, he compiled 107 tackles, 16 tackles for loss, and six sacks. While those numbers may not immediately stand out, his influence on NC State’s defense was significant. Cleveland consistently clogged running lanes and disrupted opposing quarterbacks, playing a crucial role beyond what the stat sheet shows.
From 2023 through 2025, Brandon Cleveland was a steady presence for the NC State Wolfpack football defense, appearing in 37 games and starting the majority of them. His only absences came during parts of his sophomore season and a one-game suspension as a senior following his involvement in the Military Bowl altercation that closed out the 2024 season. He returned at halftime of the 2025 opener and went on to deliver his most productive campaign with the program.
Cleveland’s most notable development, however, came off the field. In his final two seasons, he grew into a vocal leader for the defense. With a young and relatively inexperienced defensive line in 2025, he embraced the responsibility, guiding and mentoring younger players—especially freshman Josiah Victor, who could eventually step into his role.
Leave a Reply