NC State University football is gearing up for what could be a big shift in 2026. Head coach Dave Doeren just rolled out a set of coaching changes that are supposed to shake things up, both on the field and behind the scenes.
These moves include promotions and new roles for several familiar faces. The idea? Mix experience with some new energy and see what happens.
Key Coaching Changes Under Dave Doeren
Doeren, who’s been steering the Wolfpack for a while now, has reshuffled his staff in some pretty significant ways. The focus is on tightening up the defense and fine-tuning the administrative side, too.
Charley Wiles Moves to Director of High School Relations
Charley Wiles is a name most Wolfpack fans know by now. After six seasons anchoring the defensive line—and four decades in coaching—he’s moving into the Director of High School Relations spot.
He’s stepping in after Henry Trevathan retired on February 1, closing out a solid run since 2013. Doeren made a point to thank Trevathan for helping build bridges inside and outside the program.
Wiles will now focus on keeping those high school connections alive. Recruiting is everything these days, and his network could make a real difference.
Defensive Coaching Adjustments
With Wiles moving over, the defensive coaching crew is getting a shakeup:
- DJ Eliot is now in charge of the Ends and Jacks.
- Elisha Shaw will coach the defensive tackles and nose guards.
Honestly, it’ll be interesting to see how Eliot and Shaw put their own stamp on the defense. Sometimes a new voice is exactly what a position group needs.
Isaiah Moore Steps Up as Inside Linebackers Coach
Isaiah Moore, a former Wolfpack captain, is getting a shot as the inside linebackers coach. Moore’s story is pretty cool—he led the team as a captain for three years, snagged second-team All-ACC honors, and even had a stint with the Chiefs.
He made his way back to NC State, first as a volunteer, then as a grad assistant. Doeren has always talked up Moore’s leadership and his impact on team culture. Now, he gets to shape the next wave of linebackers.
Off-the-Field Changes
There’s more happening away from the sidelines, too. Some new faces are stepping into key administrative roles to keep things running smoothly.
Kevin Cristello Named Assistant AD and Football Chief of Staff
Kevin Cristello is coming aboard as Assistant Athletic Director and Football Chief of Staff. He’s got a good bit of experience, having held the same job at Coastal Carolina.
Before that, he worked football ops at Nebraska and Eastern Kentucky. Cristello’s background should help take some pressure off the coaching staff, letting them zero in on the players and the game itself.
Impact on the 2026 Season
All these changes could really shake up the 2026 season. There’s a sense that bringing in new blood and giving veterans fresh responsibilities might be the spark the program needs.
Strengthening Recruitment and Player Development
Wiles moving into the high school relations role seems like a smart play for recruiting. His contacts and experience could help NC State pull in some serious talent.
Add in the new coaching voices from Eliot, Shaw, and Moore, and you might see a different edge to player development. Maybe that’s what it takes to get over the hump.
Administrative Efficiency and Support
Cristello’s arrival as Assistant AD and Chief of Staff should help streamline things off the field. His experience in football operations could free up the coaches to do what they do best—coach.
Conclusion
The coaching changes announced by Dave Doeren signal a fresh start for NC State football. There’s a mix of experienced coaches coming in and some new faces eager to prove themselves.
It feels like the Wolfpack could be in for an interesting 2026 season. These moves aren’t just about shuffling staff—they’re clearly meant to shake up the team’s energy, both on the field and behind the scenes.
If you want to dig into the specifics, the full announcement is up on the official NC State Athletics website.
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