ECU Starting Tight End Desirrio Riles Enters Transfer Portal

East Carolina has seen another key offensive piece opt for a new opportunity, as starting tight end Desirrio Riles has decided to enter the transfer portal with one season of eligibility remaining.

Riles wrapped up a solid 2025 season as a reliable target in the middle of the field for the Pirates. He finished the year with 28 receptions for 362 yards and two touchdowns, saving his best performance for last. In the regular-season finale, Riles posted a season-high seven catches for 87 yards and a touchdown in ECU’s 42–3 win over Florida Atlantic, playing a major role in one of the Pirates’ most complete performances of the year.

The 6-foot-3, 238-pound tight end originally signed with Indiana out of high school before flipping to East Carolina Pirates, where he transitioned into the tight end position. Across his career in Greenville, Riles totaled 45 receptions for 475 yards and four touchdowns, averaging 10.6 yards per catch during his time with the program.

Riles now joins a growing list of ECU offensive players exploring options in the portal this offseason. With his size, experience, and proven production against American Athletic Conference competition, he’s expected to draw interest as a veteran tight end with immediate-impact potential.

ECU will now look toward its remaining tight ends and upcoming additions as it reshapes the position group heading into the 2026 season.