How NC State RB/WR Jonathan Paylor’s path seems to mirror Nyheim Miller-Hines’ evolution

When NC State landed a commitment from Burlington (N.C.) Cummings four-star wide receiver Jonathan Paylor in the previous recruiting cycle, the theory was he could become the Wolfpack’s next do-it-all type player.  The Pack has used speedy athletes like Paylor all over the field in the past, including standout wide receiver Kevin Concepcion and current NFL running back Nyheim Miller-Hines. But when Paylor arrived on campus last summer, NC State was focused on molding him into a slot receiver.  Paylor, who logged 2,378 rushing yards with 381 receiving yards and 33 total touchdowns as a high school senior, had plenty of learning to do when it came to playing college football as a wideout. He played just five total snaps as a true freshman, as a result, with just a three-yard carry on an end around against Western Carolina as his only statistic.  After learning during his redshirt season, both in how to be a college football player and what it takes to play wide receiver, Paylor seems to be on track to see the field in a larger role during the 2025 campaign.