Josiah Dwyer, a defensive lineman from the class of 2025, quickly developed a strong affinity for East Carolina University (ECU). This connection began during a spring practice visit to ECU, where he was soon offered a spot by defensive line coach Roy Tesh.
During that visit in March, Dwyer felt ECU could be his future home, despite considering other offers. He allowed his recruitment to progress over the following months.
Currently attending Marlboro County High School in Bennettsville, S.C., Dwyer returned to ECU for an official visit last week. He acted on his initial feeling, committing to ECU and deciding to play college football in Greenville, N.C.
“ECU felt like home,” Dwyer said. “The environment is amazing. It feels like my best chance to get on the field as a freshman. I love the staff, the coaches, and everything about the school.”
ECU had noticed Dwyer the previous season when he excelled at Clinton High School in Eastern North Carolina. The Pirates intensified their interest over the winter and maintained consistent communication with him.
“I appreciated how they stayed in contact with me throughout the process,” Dwyer said. “Other schools offered but then disappeared. ECU remained loyal.”
Dwyer aims to play early in his college career, which seems possible given the expected losses on ECU’s defensive line after this season. Seniors D’Anta Johnson and Elijah Morris, who hosted Dwyer on his visit, played as freshmen and assured him he could too, with the right work ethic and attitude.
“They told me Coach Tesh is open to playing freshmen,” said Dwyer, who plans to enroll mid-year. “Coach Tesh is very down to earth and cares about his players but also pushes them on the field.”
Listed at 6-4 and 255 pounds, Dwyer is seen as a versatile piece for ECU’s defensive scheme. They plan to add weight to him while maintaining his mobility, potentially playing him at strong side or boundary end.
“I like their scheme. It’s similar to what I run in high school, with lots of stunts and such,” Dwyer said.
Dwyer started his career at Jack Britt High School in Fayetteville, N.C., before moving to Clinton and later following his head coach, Cory Johnson, to Marlboro County.
“Transitioning was a big decision, but following my head coach was worth it,” Dwyer said. “The biggest adjustment was the hotter weather in South Carolina, but building bonds with new teammates was important.”
Planning to enroll at ECU in January, Dwyer feels ready for college, thanks to his experience with different teams and adapting quickly.
“My history of adjusting to different situations will help me in college,” Dwyer said. “I’ve done it before, so I know what to expect.”
