The extra eligibility granted during the pandemic has slowly worked its way through college football, and most of the players who began their careers in 2020 are now gone. Still, a few familiar names from that unusual season continue to resurface, serving as reminders of just how long the COVID era’s ripple effects have lasted. One of those veterans is extending his journey yet again, this time landing in the American Athletic Conference with a new opportunity and a familiar sense of urgency.
East Carolina has added a new quarterback, a former Wake Forest and Texas Tech signal caller whose college career stretches back to the 2020 season. He brings years of experience and a winding path to Greenville, giving the Pirates a seasoned option as they reshape their quarterback room.
Mitch Griffis originally signed with Wake Forest, where he spent four seasons from 2020 through 2023. For his first three years, he operated primarily as a backup before stepping into the starting role during the 2023 season. That year, he threw for 1,553 yards with nine touchdowns and seven interceptions, completing just under 60 percent of his passes. After the season, Griffis entered the transfer portal and committed to Marshall, but he later chose to step away from football entirely, announcing his retirement in June 2024.
That break did not last long. In December, Griffis reversed course, returning to the sport and transferring to Texas Tech. With the Red Raiders, he was part of a Big 12 championship team that earned a College Football Playoff berth. Although he opened the season as the third quarterback behind Behren Morton and Will Hammond, injuries quickly changed the situation. Morton battled lingering issues, while Hammond suffered a season-ending ACL injury, allowing Griffis to see meaningful action.
In limited opportunities, Griffis made the most of his snaps. He attempted 30 passes during lopsided victories over Oklahoma State and UCF, finishing the season with 357 passing yards, two touchdowns, and no interceptions. He completed 26 of his 36 attempts and also contributed on the ground with 29 rushing yards and a touchdown.
With his brief retirement excluded, the 2026 season will represent Griffis’ sixth and final year of eligibility. The Ashburn, Virginia native now heads back to the eastern part of the country, joining an East Carolina program searching for stability at quarterback. With two-year starter Katin Houser transferring to Illinois, the Pirates have an opening at the position. Griffis is expected to compete for playing time alongside freshman Chaston Ditta, who led ECU to a Military Bowl win over Pittsburgh in December.
