2009 (FRESHMAN): Redshirted. Did not see varsity action.

HIGH SCHOOL: Helped pace head coach Battle Holly’s Kinston Vikings to a 10-3 record, including a 7-2 clip in the conference, and the second round of the state playoffs … A three-time all-conference and all-county selection as a prep standout … Registered 85 pancake blocks on the offensive line and graded 85 percent as a blocker … Bench pressed 185 pounds 28 times at the Shrine Bowl combine – tops among defensive tackles/defensive ends at the event … Amassed 175 career tackles (86 solo), 6-1/2 sacks, four forced fumbles and three fumble recoveries … Registered 120 tackles (40 solo) as a prep senior and 20 tackles (10 solo) as a junior.

PERSONAL: The son of Sheila and Jeffrey Gooding was born on July 4, 1991 … Has one sister, Jazmine … Graduated in the top half of his 210-member senior class at Kinston High School … Enrolled in pre-major studies at UNCP.