East Carolina WR Anthony Smith Poised for a Big 2025 Season

Photo from Anthony Smith’s Instagram account: 9ant.smith

GREENVILLE — The speed has always been there. The size, the flash, the deep-ball threat — Anthony Smith arrived at East Carolina with all the physical tools. But it was what he built during this offseason that has the Pirates’ veteran wide receiver primed for a massive 2025.

“Honestly, I feel more prepared than I’ve ever been,” Smith said. “I’ve invested so much time into the details of my craft. I’m just locked in.”

Coming off a breakout 2024 campaign where he led ECU in receiving yards and emerged as one of the top vertical threats in the American Athletic Conference, Smith enters this season with even higher expectations — for himself, and for the program.

Locked In and Leveling Up

Smith hauled in 41 passes for 799 yards and six touchdowns last fall, averaging nearly 20 yards per catch. It was the kind of production Pirate fans had long hoped for after the Maryland native transferred from NC State. Now, with a full offseason under new head coach Blake Harrell and offensive coordinator John David Baker, Smith believes his game is about to hit another gear.

“This summer has been huge,” Smith said. “We’ve had consistency. The culture, the strength staff, the coaches — everything’s been aligned. It’s been about chemistry and bonding, and it’s paying off.”

Smith credits Harrell, a former defensive coordinator, for creating a player-first environment that’s built to last.

“He takes care of our bodies. We’re not beating ourselves up all week anymore,” Smith said. “By Saturday, we’re fresh. We’re ready to go.”

From Raleigh to Greenville: A Second Chance Realized

Smith’s story is one of perseverance. After four years at NC State, where he saw limited playing time and battled through setbacks, he transferred to ECU looking for a fresh start. And he didn’t waste the opportunity.

“I told myself I wasn’t going to make the same mistakes I made at State,” he said. “I got here and locked in. I was focused on my goals, and I stayed consistent.”

The result? Smith became one of the conference’s most explosive playmakers and an instant fan favorite in Greenville.

He still holds respect for the Wolfpack staff and teammates that helped shape him, and admits there’s no bad blood — just a sharpened edge. Especially with the season opener set in a familiar stadium.

“I spent four years with those guys…a lot of them helped me develop into the man and player I am today.”

Circle It: Return to Carter-Finley

When ECU heads to Raleigh on Aug. 28 to open the season against NC State, it’ll mark Smith’s return to the field he once called home. But don’t expect him to be caught up in the moment.

“I’ve played there. I’ve already faced them in purple and gold,” Smith said. “At the end of the day, it’s about whoever’s lining up across from me. I’m trying to dominate him — doesn’t matter the jersey.”

Still, there’s no denying the personal stakes. Smith spent four years with the Wolfpack. He built bonds. Learned lessons. Grew up.

“I still talk to some of the players, some coaches. I’ll always have love for those guys,” he said. “But now? I’m a Pirate. I’m trying to make a statement.”

Built for the System

One of the biggest reasons Smith could be in for a monster year? ECU’s new offensive scheme under JDB.

Baker’s offense is aggressive, vertical, and tempo-heavy — tailor-made for a 6-foot-3 burner with long strides and track-star speed like Smith.

“You can’t teach speed,” Smith said. “And that’s what this offense is about — shots downfield. Big plays. That’s my game.”

Baker, who brings Power Five pedigree and an offensive mind shaped by time under Lane Kiffin, has already developed strong chemistry with Smith. The pair trade jokes and talk ball regularly. The trust is evident. The fit is seamless.

The Details Make the Difference

But for all the highlight plays and big yardage, Smith said his biggest growth hasn’t been physical — it’s been mental.

“It’s all about the details. Depth on my routes. Looking the ball all the way in. Blocking on run plays. Chasing the ball downfield. Stuff most people don’t notice,” he said. “That’s what’s going to take me to the next level.”

Smith points to wide receivers coach Darryl Roberts as a key figure in his development.

“Coach Rob is my guy. He’s a huge reason I committed here,” Smith said. “He’s high energy, and he connects with all the guys. He’s helped me focus on the little things that separate good from great.”

Big Brother, Bigger Role

Smith isn’t just a leader in the locker room. He’s now a mentor — especially to his younger brother, Evan Powell, who joined the program this offseason as a freshman lineman.

“It’s been awesome having him here,” Smith said. “Even if we don’t see each other every day, it means a lot to know he’s around. I’m hard on him — because I want him to be great.”

Smith takes the role seriously. He remembers what it was like entering college without a guide. Now, he gets to be that guide for his brother — and a leader for the team.

What to Expect in 2025

So, what can fans expect from Anthony Smith this fall?

“More,” he said. “Another great season. Even better than last year.”

He doesn’t say it out of arrogance, but out of confidence built through preparation. Through the reps. Through the extra hours in the film room and weight room. Through the growth — not just as a player, but as a man.

“I’ve put in the work,” Smith said. “Now it’s time to show it.”

With the Pirates looking to make noise in the American, and a high-octane offense built around his strengths, don’t be surprised if Anthony Smith becomes one of the most talked-about receivers in the country.

He’s earned that spotlight — now he’s ready to run with it.