ECU Tight End Jayvontay Conner Enters Transfer Portal
Photo Credit: Stephen Igoe, 247 Sports
East Carolina’s roster turnover continued on Tuesday, as the Pirates saw another key offensive contributor announce his intention to enter the transfer portal.
Redshirt sophomore tight end Jayvontay Conner has declared he will be entering the portal, according to multiple reports via his agency, YM APAA Sports. The news comes on the same day ECU learned starting quarterback Katin Houser plans to transfer, marking another significant shift for the Pirates as they head into the offseason.
While the NCAA transfer portal does not officially open until Jan. 2, players are permitted to announce their intentions ahead of time. The winter portal window will remain open through Jan. 16.
Conner is coming off a breakout season in Greenville and emerged as one of ECU’s most effective offensive weapons. The 6-foot-4, 240-pound tight end played 496 snaps, finishing with 23 catches for 333 yards and three touchdowns. He flashed big-play ability throughout the season, most notably at NC State, where he totaled 98 receiving yards, including a 79-yard reception that went for a career long.
The Winston-Salem native finished the season strong, recording eight receptions over the final two games against UTSA and FAU. His role expanded as the year went on, culminating in a career-high 52 snaps in the regular season finale against FAU. Conner started six games and appeared in all 12 contests for the Pirates.
Conner’s path to prominence was not immediate. After redshirting in 2023, he transferred to East Carolina ahead of the 2024 season, following offensive coordinator John David Baker from Ole Miss. Baker’s departure back to Oxford earlier this week adds another layer to Conner’s decision, as the Pirates now undergo a full offensive reset.
After playing just six offensive snaps in 2023 and 64 snaps in 2024, Conner took a major leap forward this season. His development translated not only to production, but efficiency, as he graded out with a 67.0 overall offensive grade from Pro Football Focus. He posted a 70.2 receiving grade, along with solid marks in pass protection, reinforcing his versatility as a complete tight end.
With two years of eligibility remaining, Conner is expected to draw significant interest in the portal. His combination of size, athleticism, experience, and upward trajectory makes him an attractive option for programs seeking immediate help at the tight end position.
As ECU prepares for bowl season and a pivotal offseason, Conner becomes one of the most notable departures yet in what has already been a period of major transition for the Pirates.