NC State football coach Dave Doeren is looking forward to the start of spring practice Tuesday, but knows he has a young team to work with.

NC State will have 51 freshmen between redshirt and true when August rolls around, and will also welcome back starting senior left tackle Rob Crisp during the summer following his injury. Some more good news could be coming if free safety Jarvis Byrd is granted a sixth season, and junior running back Shadrach Thornton is completely reinstated to the team. Thornton is currently suspended but working out with the team.

Doeren is looking forward to working with Florida transfer Jacoby Brissett at quarterback, and that the redshirt junior showed his leadership skills while sitting out last year.

The Wolfpack also have announced an alumni flag football game the morning of the Kay Yow Spring Game on April 12.

Click below to listen to Doeren's press conference, and come back later today for a story and video from the media session: