Kinston WR Tyreek Copper details ECU visit, family ties to the Pirates
Kinston High School wide receiver Tyreek Copper, a rising senior in the Class of 2026, made the trip to Greenville last Friday to attend ECU’s spring practice — and left with a deeper appreciation for a program that’s already deeply woven into his family’s history. The 6-foot-2, 180-pound standout — who caught 77 passes for 1,391 yards and 16 touchdowns last season — is currently ranked as the top wide receiver in North Carolina, statistically, according to MaxPreps.
Copper’s father, Terrance Copper, starred at ECU before playing nine seasons in the NFL. His brother, Terrance Copper Jr., also suited up for the Pirates in recent years. Now, Tyreek is writing his own chapter — with offers already in hand from NC Central, Gardner-Webb, Charleston Southern, Princeton, Campbell, Cornell, and Elon.
In an exclusive interview with Trey Scott of Pirate Pulse, Copper reflected on the visit, his connection with the coaching staff, and his recruiting plans moving forward:
Q: How was your overall experience during your visit to ECU?
A: It was a great experience. Being able to watch a live practice and connect with more of ECU’s coaching staff was really enjoyable.
Q: What stood out to you the most about the program — was it the facilities, the coaches, the culture?
A: I’d say the coaches. Coach Harrell and Coach Roberts are genuine people, and they really know what they’re doing.
Q: Did you get a chance to talk with Coach Harrell or the position coaches? What were those conversations like?
A: I’ve been talking with Coach Harrell and Coach Roberts for a couple of months now. Our conversations are always very natural and genuine.
Q: What did you think of the Pirates’ offense and how you’d potentially fit into that system?
A: They run a high-tempo spread offense, and I’ve been playing in that type of system since my freshman year. I can definitely see myself fitting in, whether it’s in the slot or on the outside.
Q: What was your favorite part of the visit — whether it was the stadium, the gear, or something unexpected?
A: I’d say when they went offense vs. defense. It was intense and high energy — that’s exactly what I love about football.
Q: What did you think about the facilities?
A: They have great facilities.
Q: What do you think about the location?
A: I think it’s in a great location. Being in the city means there’s a lot to do, and being close to home is always a plus.
Q: What’s next for you in your recruitment — are you planning more visits, a decision timeline, or just focusing on senior year for now?
A: I have a few more visits lined up over the next couple of weeks. I plan to commit before the season starts so I can fully focus on my senior year.
