Kenny Soares Jr. brings veteran tackling range and instant production to NC State’s linebacker room
In the 2025 season, Kenny Soares Jr. became a difference-maker for NC State, finishing second on the Wolfpack with 80 tackles, adding 4.0 tackles for loss, six quarterback hurries, and two pass breakups while earning Walter Camp Connecticut Defensive Player of the Year honors[1]. His best trait is his versatility: he can play downhill in the run game, flash as a blitzer, and stay on the field for real snaps, not just highlight-reel moments[1][3]. He’s a strong fit for a team that needs a mature, physical linebacker who elevated after the transfer and showed he can handle bigger responsibility[1][3].
