ECU Adds Julian Griffin as New Running Backs Coach

East Carolina has filled another key spot on its offensive staff, hiring Julian Griffin as the program’s new running backs coach, first reported by Stephen Igoe of 247 Sports. Griffin arrives in Greenville with an extensive résumé that includes stops at both Power Five and Group of Five programs, along with a proven track record of developing productive backfields.

Griffin most recently spent the 2024 season at California Golden Bears, where he coached the running backs under head coach Justin Wilcox. Despite staff turnover following Wilcox’s dismissal, Griffin’s impact on Cal’s rushing attack was evident. Kendrick Raphael enjoyed a breakout season, piling up 944 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns while emerging as the centerpiece of the Golden Bears’ offense.

Before his stint in Berkeley, Griffin spent five seasons at UTSA Roadrunners, where he played a role in one of the most consistent stretches in program history. UTSA reached a bowl game in each of Griffin’s five seasons in San Antonio and captured two Conference USA championships during that span. The Roadrunners also developed into a perennial force on the ground, ranking among the league’s most reliable rushing offenses in both Conference USA and later the American.

During his time at UTSA, Griffin helped recruit and/or coach a deep stable of running backs, including Sincere McCormick, Kevorian Barnes, Robert Henry, Rocko Griffin, Brandon High, and Will Henderson. That group powered UTSA’s offense through multiple championship runs and bowl appearances.

For East Carolina, Griffin steps into a running backs room that is undergoing significant transition. The Pirates are replacing veteran contributors while also retooling their offensive staff under head coach Blake Harrell and offensive coordinator Jordan Davis. Griffin’s background in both player development and recruiting should be valuable as ECU looks to stabilize the position and build long-term depth.

With experience across multiple conferences and a history of coaching productive rushing attacks, Griffin gives ECU a seasoned voice in the meeting room and a coach who has helped sustain winning cultures at several stops. His arrival continues what has been an active offseason of staff turnover and retooling for the Pirates as they prepare for the 2026 season.