Why Is NC State DC D.J. Eliot Missing the Game vs. Virginia Tech? Family Emergency Explained

NC State defensive coordinator D.J. Eliot will be missing the Virginia Tech game because of a family emergency. His daughter, Drue, passed away this week after a five-year battle with cancer. NC State publicly shared condolences through team channels, asking the Wolfpack community to keep the Eliot family in their prayers during such a devastating loss.

Co-defensive coordinator Charlton Warren will be assuming defensive play-calling duty against Virginia Tech in Eliot’s absence. Warren brings prior experience from coordinating at North Carolina and the Air Force. Eliot also served as the linebacker coach, so in his absence, the assistant linebacker coach, Isaiah Moore, will be handling the position’s coaching duties on the sidelines.