Veteran Quarterback Mike Wright Commits to ECU, Joins Fourth College Program
Experienced dual-threat quarterback has officially committed to East Carolina University (ECU), marking the fourth stop in his collegiate career. Wright, who previously suited up for Vanderbilt, Mississippi State, and Northwestern, announced his decision via social media on May 11, 2025.
A Proven and Athletic Playmaker
Wright, standing 6-foot-4 and weighing 195 pounds, adds valuable experience and athleticism to the Pirates’ roster. Throughout his college career, he’s played in 41 games, throwing for 2,874 yards with 24 touchdowns and 15 interceptions, while also rushing for 1,313 yards and 11 scores—highlighting his effectiveness as a dual-threat quarterback.
He began his college football journey at Vanderbilt in 2020, where he appeared in 26 games across three seasons and started 11. His junior year in 2022 was his most productive, as he passed for 974 yards and 12 touchdowns, adding 517 rushing yards and five scores on the ground.
In 2023, Wright transferred to Mississippi State and took part in all 12 games, starting three. He totaled 453 passing yards with three touchdowns and three interceptions, along with 324 rushing yards and three touchdowns. Impressively, he also competed in indoor track, recording a 22.36-second 200-meter dash.
Wright spent the 2024 season at Northwestern, where he saw limited playing time—appearing in three games and starting two. He threw for 354 yards on 38-of-66 passing and added 84 rushing yards with one touchdown.
A Key Addition for the Pirates
Wright is the 17th transfer to join ECU this offseason and the first quarterback in that group. He enters a QB room that already includes Michigan State transfer Katin Houser, who threw for 2,006 yards, 18 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions in nine games last season.
Under new head coach Blake Harrell—who took over midway through the 2024 campaign—ECU is looking to build upon an 8–5 finish and a Military Bowl win over NC State. Wright’s leadership, versatility, and experience could prove instrumental as the Pirates gear up for the 2025 season.
ECU opens the year on Thursday, August 28, with a high-profile rematch against NC State, giving Wright a chance to make an immediate impact.