Virginia DL Visits, Lands Offer From the Pack

NC State has been looking to expand its 2024 defensive line recruiting board and they did just that on Tuesday when Roanoke (VA) Lord Botetourt defensive lineman Kendal Howard‍ (6-3, 250 pounds) visited and was offered prior to departing Raleigh.

The Wolfpack joined Virginia Tech, Wake Forest, Louisville, Marshall, and West Virginia, among others, that have extended scholarship offers. The three-star defensive lineman talked with Inside Pack Sports about his visit to NC State and what he thought of the Wolfpack.

“I loved it,” said Howard. “It was a great visit. It was very energetic. I had a chance to go see practice. I had a chance to watch coach Wiles, and I like him. He’s straight up and tells me what I’d be playing in college, and I prefer the authenticity he has, for sure. Some coaches are just blowing smoke, so he’s a little bit different. He told me I would probably play a 3 or 4 technique.

“The vibe there was authentic. I mean, it didn’t feel like they were trying to sugarcoat anything, really. They acted like I was just another player on the team. They let me be a part of the family for a day, and I really enjoyed that.”

The biggest hurdle for State landing Howard will definitely be Virginia Tech. Location gives them a built-in advantage, and he grew up following the Hokies. 

“Tech is close to home. I’ve got my brother, my family up here, and it’s close and I grew up a Tech fan.”

For the record, Howard said he has a few schools that he’s focused on but prefers to keep that private. His hope is to get recruiting out of the way prior to his senior season.

“I don’t really have a top five. It’s more like a top three, but I won’t be releasing it publicly, though.

“As far as making a decision, sooner would definitely be preferred over later. But I’ll definitely make a decision before my senior season starts.”

Howard does not currently have any official visits scheduled.