Johnny Williams was playing Pop Warner football when Caleb King first laid eyes on him. King had already coached Williams' older brother, Josh, at Havelock (NC) High School. Josh Williams was a two-way standout for the Rams' 2018 squad, rushing for 826 yards and making 123 tackles for a 13-1 team that reached the state 3-A finals. But one look at Johnny Williams and King … [Read more...]
VIEW FROM THE EASTBlack Knights come marching into AAC
The volume of teams involved in changing membership in the American Athletic Conference is greatly diminished from a year ago, but the newest arrival brings a high degree of tradition and national attention. The AAC expands with the addition of Army for football only. It's a much smaller scale than when Alabama Birmingham, Charlotte, Florida Atlantic, North Texas, Rice … [Read more...]
A GLIMPSE AT THE RECRUITING HORIZON2025 linebackers on ECU’s radar
East Carolina absorbed some significant losses via graduation and the transfer portal at the linebacker positions following the 2023 season, including starter Teylor Jackson and former four-star prospect RaRa Dillworth. The Pirates are also scheduled to see projected 2024 starters Mike Edwards and Kingston McKinstry complete their eligibility next fall. Those combined … [Read more...]
A GLIMPSE AT THE RECRUITING HORIZON2025 defensive linemen on ECU’s radar
East Carolina will lose some significant talent at the defensive line positions following the 2024 season, which has made securing talent there a focus of the 2025 recruiting class. Major contributors D'Anta Johnson and Suirad Ware, along with Ohio State transfer Jaden McKenzie, are scheduled to complete their eligibility with the Pirates next fall. Those pending departures … [Read more...]
A GLIMPSE AT THE RECRUITING HORIZON2025 rush ends on ECU’s radar
The "Edge'' or rush end position has become one of the most valued in college football these days. In recent years, players such as Nate Harvey, Kendall Futrell and Chad Stephens have produced impressive sack results for East Carolina playing the hybrid linebacker-defensive end spot. The Pirates will have Stephens back for one more season next fall, and signed prep rushing … [Read more...]