The East Carolina University football team has added a significant piece to its defense for the 2025 season. With an eye on strengthening its secondary, ECU’s coaching staff is excited about the arrival of a new defensive back who has the potential to make an immediate impact on the field.
This recruit comes with a proven track record of shutting down passing attacks and disrupting offenses at the collegiate level. Known for his high football IQ, athleticism, and ability to anticipate the game, he is expected to bring a unique blend of skills to the Pirates’ defensive strategy.
Defensive Coordinator Blake Harrell couldn’t hide his excitement, calling this signing “an elite addition to our defense. This player’s knack for reading the quarterback and his ability to turn the ball over make him exactly the type of player we need in our secondary. He’s going to elevate our defense with his skill set and experience.”
So, who is this playmaking defensive back?
Introducing Jonathan Akiins, a 5’11”, 177-pound cornerback from Madison, Florida. Akiins joins ECU from the University of Maryland, where he honed his skills and developed a reputation as a ball hawk capable of making crucial plays in the defensive backfield. Prior to his time at Maryland, Akiins was a standout at Madison County High School, where his ability to read offenses and lock down receivers set him apart as one of the top defensive backs in the region.
Akiins’ signing is a huge win for ECU, as his experience at the college level will provide an immediate boost to the Pirates’ defense. His ability to create turnovers and disrupt the passing game fits perfectly with ECU’s defensive scheme, and he is expected to step into a starting role right away.
With the 2025 season on the horizon, the addition of Jonathan Akiins promises to give ECU’s defense a much-needed boost, and fans can look forward to seeing him make big plays in the secondary next fall.
Welcome to the Pirates, Jonathan Akiins – the newest defensive force in Greenville!
