NC State's Grayson McCall Medically Retires After Concussion Suffered vs. Wake Forest

NC State quarterback Grayson McCall is retiring from football, he announced in an Instagram post on Wednesday.

McCall, who suffered a concussion against Wake Forest on Oct. 5, cited the many injuries he has dealt with throughout his career and said the concussion "is one that I cannot come back from."

McCall, a graduate senior, played six college football seasons between Coastal Carolina and NC State.

In his statement announcing his retirement, McCall said he, his family and the brain specialists he worked with decided it was best for him to call it a career.

"Unfortunately, my dream has been cut just short. As you all know I have battled injuries my whole career, but this is one that I cannot come back from. I have done everything I can to continue, but this is where the good Lord has called me to serve in a different space. Brain specialists, my family, and I have come to the conclusion that it is in my best interest to hang the cleats up. As I feel like my whole world is being taken from me, I feel some sense of contentment. Every time my feet hit the grass, I left every single ounce of myself on that field. I always played my hardest and to the best of my ability because I never knew what play would be my last. I have no regrets throughout my career and that is something I can be proud of. I want to use this time to show my appreciation to everyone who has been along for the ride. To my family, friends, teammates, fans and all the coaches who have poured into me over the years, I want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart. Without you all, none of this would have ever been possible."

McCall was a 2-star recruit coming out of high school and committed to Coastal Carolina, one of the only FBS schools he received an offer from. He was outstanding for the Chanticleers, with his best season coming in 2021 when he threw for 2,873 yards, 27 touchdowns and just three interceptions, recording what was then the FBS record for passing efficiency.

He led Coastal Carolina to some of their best seasons in program history, including an 11-1 record in 2020 and an 11-2 record in 2021. He was named Sun Belt Player of the Year three times.

After proving he was capable of playing at a higher level, McCall transferred to NC State ahead of the 2024 season. In his four games with the Wolfpack, he threw for 518 yards, three touchdowns and two interceptions.

In his final game at NC State, he was knocked unconscious and carted off the field on a stretcher, suffering a concussion. He also suffered several concussions during his time with Coastal Carolina.

While it is an unfortunate situation for both McCall and NC State, it is ultimately a decision he feels is best for him and his family.