Dave Doeren Announces Coaching Changes

NC State head coach Dave Doeren has announced changes to the Wolfpack football staff ahead of the 2026 season. These adjustments involve both personnel shifts within the coaching ranks and a new addition to the athletic department’s administrative team.

Coaching Staff Realignment

A significant change sees Charley Wiles, a coach with 40 years of experience and six seasons as the Wolfpack’s defensive line coach, transition to the role of Director of High School Relations. This move follows the retirement of Henry Trevathan on February 1, after serving in that position since 2013. Doeren expressed gratitude for Trevathan’s contributions, noting his success in building relationships.

Did You Know? Charley Wiles has 40 years of coaching experience.

With Wiles’ shift, DJ Eliot will now coach the Ends and Jacks, while Elisha Shaw will lead the defensive tackles and nose guards. Former Wolfpack captain Isaiah Moore, previously a defensive quality control coach, has been promoted to mentor the inside linebackers. Moore brings a strong history with the program, having started for five seasons, served as a three-year captain, and earned second-team All-ACC honors.

Doeren highlighted Moore’s deep connection to NC State, stating he “has blood in the bricks here.” Moore’s playing career included a stint with the Kansas City Chiefs before returning to NC State as a volunteer coach and graduate assistant.

New Athletic Department Role

Beyond the coaching staff, Kevin Cristello has been appointed as Assistant AD and Football Chief of Staff. Cristello joins NC State from Coastal Carolina, where he held the same role. Prior to his time at Coastal Carolina, Cristello gained experience in football operations at Nebraska and Eastern Kentucky.

Expert Insight: These staff changes suggest a focus on leveraging both experienced leadership, like Wiles, in new capacities, and promoting individuals with strong ties to the program, such as Moore, into key coaching roles.

These changes could signal a strategic shift in the program’s approach to recruiting and player development. These adjustments are intended to build upon the existing culture and strengthen relationships with high school programmes. Further developments in the program’s performance may reveal the full impact of these staffing decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What changes has NC State made to its football staff?

NC State has announced several changes, including Charley Wiles moving to Director of High School Relations, DJ Eliot and Elisha Shaw taking on new defensive coaching roles, Isaiah Moore becoming the inside linebackers coach, and Kevin Cristello joining as Assistant AD and Football Chief of Staff.

Who is replacing Henry Trevathan?

Charley Wiles will be taking over the role of Director of High School Relations, previously held by Henry Trevathan, who retired on February 1.

What is Isaiah Moore’s background with NC State?

Isaiah Moore started for five seasons for the Wolfpack, was a three-year captain, and a second-team All-ACC performer. He also served as a volunteer coach and graduate assistant after a stint with the Kansas City Chiefs.

How might these coaching changes impact the Wolfpack’s performance in the upcoming season?