East Carolina head coach Blake Harrell is reportedly making a splash in the transfer portal, with the Pirates linked to 5-star wide receiver from Duke. The move is expected to strengthen East Carolina’s receiving corps and give the Pirates a proven playmaker as they prepare for the 2026 season.
Cooper Barkate, who began his college career at Harvard before transferring to Duke, has emerged as one of the ACC’s top receivers. He led the Blue Devils in 2025 with 72 receptions for 1,106 yards and seven touchdowns, building on a breakout 2024 season in which he hauled in 63 catches for 1,084 yards and 11 touchdowns. His size, speed, and experience make him an immediate impact player for East Carolina.
The potential reunion with quarterback Darian Mensah, also reportedly in the transfer portal, adds even more intrigue.
For Blake Harrell and his staff, landing a player of Barkate’s caliber addresses a key roster need and positions East Carolina to compete at a higher level in the American Athletic Conference. With the 2026 season approaching, the Pirates are signaling they are serious about boosting their offensive firepower and making a run in the AAC.
