NC State’s Kevin Concepcion Earns Spot on Paul Hornung Award Watch List

NC State football received some exciting news this week as sophomore wide receiver Kevin Concepcion was named to the prestigious Paul Hornung Award Watch List. The award, presented annually by the Louisville Sports Commission, recognizes the most versatile player in major college football—a fitting honor for Concepcion, who has quickly established himself as one of the most dynamic weapons in the Wolfpack offense.

A Rising Star in Raleigh

Concepcion burst onto the scene as a true freshman last season, becoming an instant playmaker for head coach Dave Doeren and offensive coordinator Robert Anae. Standing out among a talented roster, he led the Wolfpack in multiple receiving categories, finishing with 71 receptions for 839 yards and 10 touchdowns. His ability to make plays in the open field and contribute in a variety of ways made him an invaluable part of NC State’s offensive attack.

Coaches and analysts alike were impressed by his composure and maturity, noting how Concepcion seamlessly transitioned from high school football to the speed and physicality of the ACC. Beyond his receiving production, he showcased versatility by taking snaps in the backfield and lining up in motion to create mismatches.

Kevin is one of those rare players who can hurt defenses in so many ways, Doeren said during spring workouts. Whether he’s catching passes, running jet sweeps, or drawing coverage to open things up for his teammates, he changes the game whenever he touches the ball.

The Significance of the Paul Hornung Award

The Paul Hornung Award is named after the legendary Notre Dame and NFL player Paul Hornung, famously dubbed “The Golden Boy.” Hornung was known for his versatility, excelling as a rusher, passer, receiver, and return specialist during his storied career. The award seeks to honor players who embody that same multi-dimensional impact on the field.

Being included on the watch list signals that Concepcion is considered one of the most versatile athletes in college football. Past winners include stars like DeVonta Smith (Alabama), Jabrill Peppers (Michigan), and Saquon Barkley (Penn State), all of whom made significant contributions in multiple phases of the game.

For NC State, Concepcion’s recognition also shines a spotlight on the program as it aims to challenge for an ACC title in the 2024 season.

Key Moments from Concepcion’s Freshman Season

Concepcion’s freshman campaign was filled with highlight-reel performances that helped solidify his reputation as a future star. Among his standout games:

• Against Wake Forest, he caught eight passes for 102 yards and scored two touchdowns, helping the Wolfpack secure a crucial conference victory.

• Versus Virginia Tech, Concepcion demonstrated his big-play ability with a 62-yard touchdown reception, leaving defenders grasping at air.

• In the regular-season finale against North Carolina, he played a pivotal role in NC State’s rivalry win, tallying over 100 total yards and a touchdown.

Preparing for an Even Bigger Role

With a year of experience under his belt, Concepcion enters his sophomore season with heightened expectations. NC State’s offensive scheme is designed to maximize his versatility, with plays that allow him to move around the formation, run after the catch, and potentially see more opportunities as a rusher.

The Wolfpack coaching staff has also emphasized improving his skills in special teams, a key factor for any Paul Hornung Award candidate. By adding punt and kickoff return duties to his repertoire, Concepcion could become an even bigger threat and enhance his national profile.

Kevin has the tools to be one of the most explosive players in the country, offensive coordinator Robert Anae said. “If he keeps working, he can be a guy that changes games in multiple ways—exactly the kind of player this award celebrates.

NC State’s Outlook with Concepcion Leading the Way

The Wolfpack are eyeing a strong 2024 campaign in the Atlantic Coast Conference, and Concepcion’s development will be central to their offensive success. NC State will look to improve on last season’s 9-4 record and make a push toward the ACC Championship Game.

With a new quarterback taking the reins and several young receivers stepping into bigger roles, Concepcion’s ability to draw defensive attention and make high-impact plays will be crucial. Opposing defenses will likely game plan around slowing him down, but his versatility could make that task difficult.

In addition to his personal accolades, Concepcion has expressed a team-first mentality, emphasizing that his ultimate goal is to help NC State win.

A Player to Watch on the National Stage

Earning a spot on the Paul Hornung Award Watch List is just the latest step in Concepcion’s rising career. As NC State prepares for a season filled with both opportunity and expectation, he will undoubtedly be one of the most closely watched players in the ACC.

If his sophomore season builds upon the electric foundation he established as a freshman, Concepcion could not only contend for the Paul Hornung Award but also elevate himself into the national conversation as one of college football’s premier playmakers.