The East Carolina Pirates announced that rising quarterback Ethan Royal from William Amos Hough High School in Cornelius, NC, has verbally committed to join their 2027 recruiting class.
Royal, a 6‑1, 190‑lb signal‑caller, was heavily recruited by several Group of 5 programs and is widely regarded as one of the top quarterback prospects in the region.
Royal’s decision gives the Pirates a cornerstone for their offense, known for his poise in the pocket, strong arm, and ability to make plays on the move.
Ethan Royal
Coaches praise his leadership and football IQ, which they say will translate seamlessly to the ECU system under Head Coach Blake Harrell.
“I’m thrilled to be joining the Pirates,” Royal said in a statement. “The coaching staff made me feel at home from day one, and I can’t wait to compete and help build something special here.”
With Royal now in the fold, ECU strengthens its 2027 class at a key position.
Fans and analysts alike see the commitment as a major step toward building a competitive roster in the American Athletic Conference, with the Pirates hoping to make a splash in the coming seasons.
