Grayson McCall, the starting quarterback for NC State, was carted off the field on a stretcher Saturday after taking a hard hit to the head against Wake Forest. The injury occurred in the first quarter and McCall's helmet and mouthpiece were both dislodged on the play.
**Raleigh, N.C.** - NC State quarterback Grayson McCall suffered a gruesome head injury in the first quarter of Saturday's game against Wake Forest, prompting fears about his health and career.
McCall, who transferred to NC State as a graduate student in January after five seasons at Coastal Carolina, was making his first start since September 14th when he sustained an unspecified injury against Louisiana Tech.
NC State QB Grayson McCall Suffers Gruesome Head Injury, Carted Off Field
The injury occurred when McCall scrambled for a first down on third and 11. He ran for nine yards before being hit by several Wake Forest defenders. The impact of the tackle sent McCall's helmet and mouthpiece flying, and he appeared to lay motionless on the ground.
Teammates, including wide receiver Keenan Jackson, immediately motioned for medical personnel to come over. The ball was still in play as Wake Forest defensive back Evan Slocum, who had not been involved in the tackle, recovered the ball and ran it before being brought down around the 1-yard line.
NC State QB Grayson McCall Suffers Gruesome Head Injury, Carted Off Field
After being placed in a brace, McCall was carted out of the stadium on a stretcher. He raised his hand to fans before reportedly heading to a hospital for further evaluation.
The injury raises concerns, due to McCall's concussion history. According to ESPN, he sustained a serious head injury last season that ended his 2023 campaign and nearly cost him his career.
NC State QB Grayson McCall Suffers Gruesome Head Injury, Carted Off Field
McCall's injury casts a pall over NC State's season, which started with high expectations. The Wolfpack are now 1-1 and face a tough schedule in the coming weeks.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
