RECRUITING: Pedigreed Safety Speer Plans Early Enrollment
Durante Speer has been steeped in the world of football from a young age, with a family history deeply rooted in the sport. His grandfather, Eddie Sheats, forged a path as a defensive lineman for Kansas in the early 1970s and was drafted by the NFL’s Washington Redskins in 1973. Following in these footsteps, his father Terrence played cornerback at Alabama A&M, and his cousin DeMario Minter went on to a career as an NFL cornerback. Surrounded by this legacy, Speer found himself naturally drawn to the game, although he didn’t fully commit to pursuing football seriously until his recent standout season at Columbia High School in Decatur, GA.
His journey to becoming a prominent player began to crystallize during his junior year, marked by significant physical growth and intensified training. Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 180 pounds, Speer emerged from two seasons as a varsity reserve to make a substantial impact during the 2024 season. Playing as a safety, he amassed impressive statistics including 44 tackles, a sack, and an interception over 12 games. His standout performance, including a stellar showing against McNair with six tackles and an interception, garnered attention from collegiate recruiters.
East Carolina University took particular interest, dispatching Damon Magazu, their new safeties coach and former star safety, for a personal meeting that resulted in a scholarship offer. This initial offer was followed by several others from notable programs such as Coastal Carolina, Georgia State, and Alabama A&M, among others. Speer embarked on a series of visits to evaluate his options, culminating in an official visit to East Carolina in June, where he felt an immediate connection with the coaching staff and the program’s familial atmosphere. Promptly thereafter, he committed verbally to the Pirates, joining a cadre of recruits in what proved to be a significant month for the team.
Reflecting on his journey thus far, Speer acknowledges the pivotal role of his environment and the challenges he faced. Beginning his high school career at Tower High School, he quickly realized the need for a change to foster his growth as an athlete. Moving to Columbia High School provided the competitive environment and support system necessary for him to thrive, despite initially facing stiff competition in the secondary. By his junior year, Speer had secured a starting position and established himself as a linchpin in Columbia’s defense, contributing to a successful season that saw the team advance deep into the state playoffs.
Looking forward to his final year of high school, Speer remains focused on honing his skills, particularly in interception opportunities and reading quarterbacks. His dedication extends beyond the gridiron, where he also excels in track and maintains a rigorous academic schedule. With plans to graduate early and enroll at East Carolina in January 2025, Speer is poised to continue his athletic and academic journey at the collegiate level.
When asked about his strengths as a player, Speer exudes confidence in his speed, agility, and aggressive playstyle. He emphasizes his commitment to hard work and determination, traits that he believes will set him apart as he transitions to the collegiate arena. With his eyes firmly set on making an impact from day one at East Carolina, Speer embodies a blend of talent, ambition, and resilience forged through a lifetime of dedication to the game he loves.