“I am saddened to announce that I am transferring from East Carolina University,” Benkert said. “I feel it is in my best interest to explore other options for graduate school. Thank you again Pirate Nation for the support throughout the last three years, it was never unnoticed and I will forever be grateful for it.”
Benkert, who has served three years in the Pirate program, was announced as ECU’s starter in 2015 before tearing his ACL in practice and was most recently battling with Rutgers transfer Phillip Nelson for the starting job in spring practices.
Benkert played in three games as a redshirt sophomore, serving as Shane Carden’s backup in 2014, passing for 58 yards on 8-of-10 passing with one interception.