Zavion Griffin-Haynes, a highly sought-after edge rusher from Reidsville High School in North Carolina, has scheduled an official visit to NC State. The 6-foot-6, 235-pound four-star athlete recently included the Wolfpack among his top 11 programs. Other schools vying for his commitment include UNC, Georgia, Miami, Florida, Florida State, Notre Dame, Ohio State, LSU, Alabama, and Texas. Griffin-Haynes, who previously decommitted from UNC, ranks No. 220 overall, No. 18 at his position, and No. 14 in North Carolina according to the 247Sports 2026 Composite. He has received over 40 offers during his recruitment process. Following two unofficial visits earlier this year, he will embark on an official visit to NC State starting May 30. Georgia is the only other school that has secured an official visit, set for early June.
Zavion Griffin-Haynes has garnered significant attention from some of the nation's leading football programs. His impressive physical attributes and skill set have made him a coveted prospect. After initially committing to UNC, Griffin-Haynes decided to re-evaluate his options, leading to renewed interest from multiple elite universities. Among these institutions, NC State stands out as a strong contender for his commitment. The Wolfpack coaching staff has been actively pursuing Griffin-Haynes since last spring, offering him a place on their team. This move has positioned NC State as a formidable player in the race for this talented athlete.
The inclusion of NC State in Griffin-Haynes' top 11 list underscores the program's appeal. His decision to schedule an official visit further solidifies the mutual interest between the player and the university. With over 40 scholarship offers to his name, Griffin-Haynes has become one of the most sought-after prospects in the country. His visits to NC State in January and February provided valuable insights into the campus culture and coaching philosophy. These experiences likely played a crucial role in his decision to return for a more formal visit in late May. The upcoming visit could be pivotal in shaping the future of this promising athlete's college career.
The scheduling of official visits is a critical phase in the recruitment process for high-profile athletes like Griffin-Haynes. By planning visits to both NC State and Georgia, he is taking a strategic approach to evaluate his options thoroughly. Each visit provides an opportunity to assess the fit between the player and the institution, covering aspects such as academic offerings, team dynamics, and long-term development plans. For NC State, securing an official visit from Griffin-Haynes represents a significant milestone in their recruitment efforts. The visit, set for May 30, will allow both parties to explore the potential partnership in greater depth.
Griffin-Haynes' recruitment journey highlights the competitive nature of college football recruiting. His ranking and numerous offers reflect his exceptional talent and potential. As he prepares for his visits, the focus will be on finding the best environment to support his growth both on and off the field. The NC State visit, in particular, offers a chance for Griffin-Haynes to experience firsthand the Wolfpack's commitment to excellence. The visit to Georgia shortly after will provide a comparative perspective, helping him make an informed decision. Ultimately, these visits are instrumental in guiding Griffin-Haynes toward the program that aligns best with his aspirations and goals.