The Wolfpacker: An Independent Magazine Covering NC State Sports
Issue link: https://comanpub.uberflip.com/i/1542201
46 ■ THE WOLFPACKER WHERE ARE THEY NOW? BY NOAH FLEISCHMAN arius Morehead found himself nearly 4,000 miles away from his hometown of Whitsett, N.C., in Le Mans, France, two summers ago. The destination was a far cry from his small- town upbringing, where he was one of just under 600 people living in the area. In France, Morehead was preparing to be a part of NASCAR's Garage 56 entry in the famed 24 Hours of Le Mans, one of the most prestigious automotive races in the world. The former NC State safety had traded his pads for a fire suit. He quickly ascended the ranks, becoming a key part of Hendrick Motorsports' entry in the 100th running of Le Mans. Morehead called it a "once in a life- time opportunity," one that he could scarcely have imagined back when he was starring for the Wolfpack. He be- lieved he would play in the NFL when his college football career was over, but instead he found himself taking part in one of NASCAR's most ambitious feats. "I would say that's one of the most amazing moments of my life," More- head said. The Path To NASCAR A three-year starter in NC State's sec- ondary, Morehead thought he would at least earn an NFL training camp invita- tion after his senior season concluded. He racked up 225 total tackles with 5 in- LIFE IN THE FAST LANE Former Wolfpack Safety Makes A Smooth Transition From The Gridiron To The Race Track JARIUS MOREHEAD W H E R E A R E T H E Y N O W ? J Morehead totaled 225 tackles and 5 interceptions while playing strong safety for the Wolfpack from 2015-19. PHOTO COURTESY NC STATE ATHLETICS