Charlotte, NC, December 3, 2025
The NC State Wolfpack football team celebrated a remarkable 2025 season as three players—Caden Fordham, Justin Joly, and Hollywood Smothers—were named to the All-ACC First Team. This recognition underscores the talent and hard work of the athletes and the strength of the Wolfpack program. Their achievements inspire future generations of athletes in North Carolina and highlight the importance of community support in collegiate sports.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – The 2025 football season brought significant recognition to the NC State Wolfpack, with three standout players named to the prestigious All-ACC First Team. This achievement not only showcases their individual talents but also reflects the strength and resilience of the Wolfpack program as it competes against some of the top teams in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC).
The players honored—linebacker Caden Fordham, tight end Justin Joly, and running back Hollywood Smothers—have demonstrated exceptional skill and dedication on the field. Such accomplishments not only highlight their personal achievements but also serve to inspire local athletes and future generations in Charlotte and across North Carolina.
The recognition of these athletes is essential for fostering a culture of excellence in collegiate sports, encouraging local entrepreneurship, and enhancing community pride. Celebrating these individual successes showcases the potential that can flourish in an environment that supports athletes and businesses alike.
Player Achievements
Caden Fordham
Graduate student Caden Fordham led the ACC with an impressive average of 10.8 tackles per game, totaling 130 tackles for the season. His impactful presence on the field was pivotal for the Wolfpack’s defensive unit, cementing his status as one of the top linebackers in the conference.
Justin Joly
Senior tight end Justin Joly had a stellar season, tying the NC State single-season record for tight ends with seven touchdown receptions. He also recorded 47 receptions for 468 yards, demonstrating his ability to be a significant offensive weapon despite missing one game due to injury.
Hollywood Smothers
Redshirt sophomore Hollywood Smothers shone brightly as he led the ACC in rushing yards per game, averaging 85.4 yards. With over 100 rushing yards in four separate games and a total of seven touchdowns, he became the first NC State running back to earn first-team All-ACC honors since 2017, marking a notable milestone for the program.
Honorable Mentions
In addition to the first-team selections, two other NC State athletes received recognition as honorable mentions. Offensive tackle Jacarrius Peak and punter Caden Noonkester showcased their talents with Peak starting all 12 games at left tackle and recording a team-high 50 pancake blocks. Meanwhile, Noonkester stood out by leading the ACC with 21 punts inside the 20-yard line and averaging 43.6 yards per punt.
Background
The All-ACC First Team selections are determined through a voting process involving the Atlantic Coast Sports Media Association (ACSMA) and the coaches from the league. This system ensures that the players recognized are genuinely the top performers within the conference, highlighting both talent and hard work.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Players Named to All-ACC First Team | Caden Fordham, Justin Joly, Hollywood Smothers |
| Honorable Mentions | Jacarrius Peak, Caden Noonkester |
| Selection Process | Vote by ACSMA and league head coaches |
| Conference | Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) |
| Season | 2025 |
Conclusion
This season has proven to be a remarkable one for the NC State Wolfpack, with talented players elevating the program’s standing through their achievements. Their successes embody the spirit of competition and community support, vital components of both college sports and economic growth in Charlotte. As these athletes continue to excel, they remind us of the importance of supporting local talent, as many future champions and innovators are found within our own communities.
Encouraging local businesses and fostering an environment where talent can thrive contributes to the broader economic landscape of Charlotte. As we celebrate these athletes, let us also support the vibrant entrepreneurial spirit that fuels our local economy and inspires future generations.
Who were the NC State players named to the All-ACC First Team in 2025?
Linebacker Caden Fordham, tight end Justin Joly, and running back Hollywood Smothers were named to the All-ACC First Team for the 2025 season.
What were the notable achievements of these players during the 2025 season?
Caden Fordham led the ACC with 10.8 tackles per game, totaling 130 tackles. Justin Joly tied the NC State single-season record for tight ends with seven touchdowns and recorded 47 receptions for 468 yards. Hollywood Smothers led the ACC in rushing yards per game with 85.4 yards, becoming the first NC State running back to earn first-team All-ACC honors since 2017.
Who received honorable mention All-ACC honors from NC State?
Offensive tackle Jacarrius Peak and punter Caden Noonkester received honorable mention All-ACC honors.
How are All-ACC First Team selections determined?
The All-ACC First Team selections are determined by a vote of the Atlantic Coast Sports Media Association (ACSMA) and the league’s head coaches.
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