East Carolina football is making a big move in the transfer portal, adding experienced talent to its secondary with the commitment of cornerback, a transfer from Florida International University (FIU). This addition gives the Pirates a proven defensive back capable of making an immediate impact as ECU prepares for the 2026 season.
The incoming defensive back, Ashton Levells, brings a wealth of experience to ECU’s cornerback room. A 6-foot-1, 170-pound athlete from Texas, Levells played two seasons at FIU after beginning his collegiate career at Butler Community College. During his 2025 campaign with the Panthers, he recorded 20 tackles and four pass breakups, showing his ability to defend in man and zone coverage. His performance made him a key contributor in FIU’s secondary and a natural fit for ECU’s defensive schemes.
Levells’ decision to join ECU was influenced by his relationship with the Pirates’ coaching staff, particularly cornerbacks coach Tarron Williams, who initially recruited him out of junior college. The opportunity to step into a competitive secondary and play for a program aiming to strengthen its defensive unit made ECU his top choice over several other schools.
The Pirates enter the 2026 season facing several departures in the defensive backfield, including key contributors Tymir Brown, Rasheed Reason, and Chance Graves. Levells’ arrival provides both depth and immediate talent, ensuring the team remains competitive against strong passing attacks in the American Athletic Conference.
With one year of eligibility remaining, Levells is expected to compete right away for a starting role. His speed, instincts, and experience in high-level competition make him a key piece in ECU’s plans to bolster pass defense, create turnovers, and mentor younger players in the secondary.
Fans will be watching closely as Levells integrates into ECU’s defensive system, with spring practices providing the first look at how he fits into the rotation. His addition signals that the Pirates are serious about strengthening the secondary and adding playmakers who can make an immediate difference on the field.
