Whitley picks ECU

Rockingham (N.C.) Richmond County running Norman Whitley concluded his recruitment by committing to East Carolina. The 5-foot-8, 177-pounder picked the Pirates over an offer from Appalachian State and interest from others.

"All I know is that he committed to East Carolina," said Richmond County head coach Ed Emory. "I haven't seen him in person since he took the visit there last weekend, but I talked to Junior Smith from East Carolina and he told me that Norman really enjoyed his trip and decided to commit to the coaches before he left on Sunday."

What kind of addition will the three-star prospect provide East Carolina?

"He's a great player and has good speed and vision. He should be a very good running back for them for the next few years."

Whitley is the 22nd commitment for the Pirates this season and was named the North Carolina offensive MVP in the Shrine Bowl.

As a senior, he ran for 2,168 yards and 29 touchdowns.