Full Breakdown
NC State's Teddy Hoffmann Suspended for 2026 Season Due to PED Violation
3/18/2026, 9:17:25 PM
Overview of the Suspension
NC State sophomore wide receiver Teddy Hoffmann has been suspended for the entire 2026 college football season after testing positive for a banned performance-enhancing substance. This automatic one-year suspension is mandated by NCAA regulations, which stipulate that a positive test results in the loss of one full season of competition.
Impact on NC State's Offense
Hoffmann's suspension significantly impacts the Wolfpack's offensive strategy for the upcoming season. As a true freshman in 2025, Hoffmann played all 13 games, recording 25 receptions for 359 yards and three touchdowns. He was expected to take on a larger role in 2026, especially following the departures of key players like Terrell Anderson, who transferred to USC, and Noah Rogers, who moved to Alabama. With Hoffmann unavailable, NC State will likely rely on other wide receivers, including Keenan Jackson, Jonathan Paylor, and Joshisa Trader, a former high school teammate of CJ Bailey.
Official Statements & Responses
Head coach Dave Doeren addressed the situation, stating, “Teddy made a mistake that he’s taken responsibility for in front of his teammates and coaches. It’s an unfortunate reminder about the importance of always checking with the sports medicine staff before taking any type of medication or supplement to make sure it’s permitted.” He expressed confidence that Hoffmann would learn from this experience and use it as motivation moving forward.
Broader Implications for the Team
The loss of Hoffmann is particularly significant as he was the only returning receiver who finished in the top five for receiving yards at NC State last season. The Wolfpack's coaching staff has attempted to bolster the wide receiver corps through the transfer portal, bringing in five new wideouts, including Chance Robinson from Miami and Tyran Warren from Alcorn State. However, Hoffmann's absence leaves the team with a largely untested group of receivers heading into the 2026 season.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While Hoffmann's suspension is confirmed, details regarding the specific banned substance he tested positive for have not been disclosed by either Hoffmann or NC State. The NCAA's testing program includes a range of banned substances, but the exact nature of Hoffmann's violation remains unclear.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Teddy made a mistake that he’s taken responsibility for in front of his teammates and coaches,” — Dave Doeren, Head Coach, NC State
- “NC State losing Hoffmann is a major hit for the wide receiver room, especially given that he was the only receiver set to return who finished top-five in receiving yards (at NC State) last year,” — Cory Smith, 247Sports NC State Insider
Hoffmann's suspension serves as a critical reminder of the NCAA's strict policies regarding performance-enhancing drugs and the potential consequences for student-athletes.
