A Promising Outlook for the Pirates
East Carolina’s football program has reason for optimism as two of its standout players have been selected for the 2026 Shriner Children’s East‑West Bowl 1000 watch list, a preseason showcase that highlights the most promising prospects heading into the 2027 NFL Draft.
Brandon Best, a mid‑year graduate transfer who joined the Pirates in January 2026 after completing his studies at Georgia Tech, brings a wealth of experience from 43 career games and a 10‑4 record with Kennesaw State in 2025. His consistent performance earned him preseason All‑American honors from Phil Steele Magazine, Athlon Sports and Lindy’s Sports, and he was also recognized on the Conference USA first‑team in 2025.
Robinson’s Defensive Impact
Defensive lineman Jasiyah Robinson, a two‑year letterman who has appeared in 27 games with 11 starts, has recorded 39 tackles, 9.0 tackles for loss and 5.5 sacks, numbers that helped him secure preseason All‑American Conference recognition from Athlon Sports and Phil Steele Magazine. His development has been a key factor in the Pirates’ defensive schemes heading into the new season.
Robinson’s emergence adds depth to a defensive line that struggled for consistency last year, and his ability to disrupt opposing offenses should give the Pirates a stronger front seven as they prepare for a demanding schedule.
Season Opener Set for September 5
The Pirates are set to open their 2026 campaign on September 5 at Bryant‑Denny Stadium in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, facing the Crimson Tide in a primetime matchup that will kick off at 12 p.m. Eastern Time and be televised on ABC.