NC State freshman WR Kevin Concepcion prepares to make an early impression
Kevin Concepcion arrived at NC State in January, shortly after wrapping up his high school career with Charlotte (NC) Chambers High. Less than a year later, receiver is ready to make an instant impact this fall.
He stood out during the spring game, hauling in a deep pass that was just short of a touchdown and showing off some impressive skill after the catch. Those big plays were more than a flash in the pan.
After consistently standing out this offseason, the true freshman could play a significant role in the Wolfpack wide receiver rotation. Enrolling early helped prepare him for early playing time.
“I got here during spring ball, so I had my chance to adapt to the speed of the game then,” Concepcion said. “Now, it’s just getting the extra reps to get ready for game day.”
Throughout spring practice and the first two weeks of fall camp, Concepcion spent every day competing against an extremely talented Wolfpack defense. He shared his takeaways from the transition from high school to college football.
“The defense is faster, I’m not even going to lie to you, and the guys are huge,” Concepcion said. “It’s nothing that a little adjustment can’t get you used to.”
NC State’s receiver room and quarterback Brennan Armstrong have all helped Concepcion prepare for college football. He said the Wolfpack’s receiver room definitely has a positive vibe around it these days.
“They’ve been very helpful,” Concepcion said. “They took me in with open arms. It just feels like a brotherhood here.”
Armstrong and Concepcion are working to build a strong connection on the practice field ahead of the Pack’s Aug. 31 season-opener. The receiver said they still have work to do, but they are making progress. He added that the sixth-year signal-caller does not hesitate to help out on the practice field.
“On certain plays, where I don’t know where to go and I’m messing up, he just comes over and he talks to me and tells me where I need to be so he can get me the ball,” Concepcion said.
NC State will debut its new offense under the coaching of coordinator Robert Anae in just over two weeks. Concepcion committed to the program before the offseason coaching change, but the assistant coach quickly built a relationship with the former class of 2023 recruit.
They arrived in Raleigh around the same time, and the receiver is a huge fan of the scheme eight months into his collegiate career.
“He’s an amazing person, and his offense is amazing,” Concepcion said. “You guys will see this season for sure.”
