After a barren class last cycle, what could the 2023 NFL Draft hold for the East Carolina Pirates? If Mike Houston’s team can continue their upward trajectory in the AAC, there are several potential prospects who could push for their selection next April. Who are the players you should be watching for when the Pirates take to the field this fall?
East Carolina prospects in the 2023 NFL Draft
Having suffered through losing seasons since 2014, does a 7-5 record in Houston’s third season as East Carolina head coach signal a turnaround in the fortunes of the program? There’s reason to believe that not only can that success be repeated this fall, but it could have a knock-on impact on their 2023 NFL Draft class. A rising running back, a returning quarterback, and a receiver carrying some question marks headline the Pirates’ prospects.
Keaton Mitchell, RB
One of the most exciting running backs in college football, Keaton Mitchell could end the season as East Carolina’s best 2023 NFL Draft prospect. As a sophomore, Mitchell rushed for 1,132 yards at 6½ yards per carry. Meanwhile, posing a threat as a pass catcher out of the backfield, he added 253 receiving yards, tallying 10 total touchdowns.
Mitchell is a potent speed threat who possesses the elusiveness to avoid contact and break for huge runs. If the 5’9″, 188-pound RB can improve in pass protection, his stock could skyrocket.
Holton Ahlers, QB
Contrary to popular belief, East Carolina QB Holton Ahlers is entering just his fifth season under center for the Pirates. Somehow, it feels like he’s been around forever. Can he assert himself as a genuine QB contender in the 2023 NFL Draft class with an impressive season?
At 6’3″ and 230 pounds, Ahlers is built for the rigors of the NFL. He showcases toughness both in and out of the pocket, with deceptive athleticism to extend plays. He also exhibits arm strength, excellent football IQ, and the ability to manipulate safeties with his eyes.
C.J. Johnson, WR
Big-bodied pass catchers who can bully at the catch point, be physical in the ground game, and add yardage after the catch are always in high demand. That is exactly what East Carolina has in 6’2″, 222-pound WR C.J. Johnson.
The senior wide receiver has averaged 17.0 yards per catch in his career, with a career-high 908 yards in 2019. The kicker? East Carolina doesn’t actually have Johnson right now. The pass catcher was suspended indefinitely earlier this year, with his 2023 NFL Draft status presently unsure.
Ryan Jones, TE
Former Oklahoma linebacker Ryan Jones led East Carolina in receiving touchdowns in his first season playing the position. At 6’2″ and 247 pounds, Jones may lack the height of a typical NFL tight end, but he showcased an alluring athletic skill set last fall. He has the explosiveness and decent speed to separate and boasts surprisingly impressive hands.
Additionally, Jones’ linebacker physicality shows up in blocking. There’s work to do, but he could be a diamond in the rough of this 2023 NFL Draft class.
Jeremy Lewis, EDGE
Jones isn’t the only positional swap 2023 NFL Draft prospect on the East Carolina roster. Jeremy Lewis was one of the most productive defensive players for the Pirates last fall, tallying 42 tackles, comprising 5½ for loss, three sacks, and two forced fumbles.
The 6’3″, 235-pound edge rusher was previously a tight end. He showcases explosion and speed off the edge, and has the length to be disruptive in multiple phases of the game. Lewis could be a genuine sleeper in the 2023 NFL Draft class.
Jireh Wilson, S
Where versatility is as valuable as ability in the later rounds, there are few more versatile 2023 NFL Draft prospects out of East Carolina than Jireh Wilson. A high school defensive back and wide receiver, Wilson’s aligned in multiple spots for the Pirates, including SAM linebacker and safety.
At 6’3″ and 212 pounds, he’s a physically imposing chess piece who boasts some impressive athletic ability combined with a strong understanding of the game. Sacks, interceptions, forced fumbles. You name it, it’s on Wilson’s ECU résumé.
Malik Fleming, CB
Don’t mistake slightness for weakness. Diminutive ECU cornerback Malik Fleming has the physicality to mix it up with much bigger receivers than his 5’10”, 187-pound frame. Fleming also boasts decent speed and good ball skills. This has resulted in impressive production, with nine pass breakups and a pick-six last fall. A selection in the 2023 NFL Draft is a long shot, but a standout season as the Pirates’ CB1 could elevate his stock.
Justin Redd, G
6’5″, 315-pound guard Justin Redd absolutely dominated at the FCS level. The former Norfolk State offensive lineman earned FCS All-American honors last fall. He was also named the HBCU Offensive Lineman of the Year.
In addition to requisite NFL size, Redd boasts impressive athleticism and has the flexibility to play the game with proper technique. If he can transfer his dominance to the FCS level, he has the potential to assert himself onto the 2023 NFL Draft class.