Howard staying with NC State

Charlotte (N.C.) Olympic wide receiver Steven Howard was one of the first commitments for the Wolfpack back in April. With the recent developments of Chuck Amato's firing, does that change anything for the 6-foot-3, 180-pounder?

"Steve is shocked and disappointed that coach Amato is leaving, but at the same time he's confident that NC State will make a great hire," Olympic head coach Maurice Flowers said. "He still likes that they are in the ACC and he'll get television exposure and a great degree. I know he wanted to play for coach Amato, but he loves the university."

North Carolina State has already been in touch with the three-star prospect.

"The athletic director called and wanted to let Steven and his family to know that they plan to get a coach in place soon and they want him still to come to State," he said. "They also wanted to remind him that a scholarship is definitely on the table.

"Coach Portee came by the school and spent some time with Steven too. I think after talking with him, Steven feels much more comfortable and it really put his mind at ease."

Howard concluded his senior season last week helping Olympic to a 10-3 record.

"Steven had a good year," he said. "I know he had about four or five catches a ball game and finished with 12 touchdowns. He was double covered in at least nine games.

"This year he really understood the meaning of being a team player. He wasn't the leading receiver, but understood that teams focused on him and that allowed other players to get open. I also saw that he definitely improved on his route running and blocking. He was also much more aggressive and a physical player this year."