NC State’s Davin Vann continues to grow as a leader, pass rusher

When NC State defensive end Davin Vann accepted the No. 1 jersey from Wolfpack coach Dave Doeren before last season, a new set of responsibilities came with the fresh threads.  The number, which cannot be selected and only given out by the coaching staff, is worn by a player that “exhibits an elite work ethic and practice and training habits, while also leading his teammates.” Usually, the player with the No. 1 on their chest is a leader, one to be looked to for guidance and to push the program’s standards higher.  Vann, who is back in the No. 1 for the second straight season, had to learn what that meant. There were some responsibilities that came with the uniform that he would have to do, whether he liked it or not. Leading the Pack was at the top of the list, and it forced him to push himself personally within the program.  Now, as he enters his final collegiate season after turning down an opportunity of entering the NFL Draft after his breakout season in 2023, Vann is focused on improving the mental side of his game, both as an athlete and a person.