DURHAM – Former Duke men's soccer goalkeeper
Julian Eyestone has signed a professional contract with Brentford B, the Premier League club announced on Friday. Eyestone's contract is for three years, with a club option available for an additional fourth year.
"We are delighted that Julian is following his professional soccer dreams," said Duke head coach
John Kerr. "He had a spectacular year here at Duke and we're very supportive of his aspirations to move to the next level. He made a big impact in a short period of time with us, and we're grateful for his contributions, both on and off the field! He's a very exciting prospect and we hope to see him play in the World Cup for the USA in the coming years!"
A native of Dallas, Texas, Eyestone started in all 18 of Duke's matches as a freshman during the 2023 season. The 6-foot-7 keeper tallied six shutouts during his time as a Blue Devil, including a stretch of three clean sheets in the span of four games – keeping Elon, Pittsburgh and Howard off the scoresheet while making a combined total of 12 saves. Following the end of the 2023 campaign, Eyestone announced his departure from Duke in December.
"After much consideration and discussions, I have decided to pursue a professional career," said Eyestone in December. "I would like to thank my incredible coaches, staff, teammates, and friends for helping me grow as a player and a person. You've all made this feel like home since day 1. I'm forever thankful and forever a Blue Devil."
Following the regular season, Eyestone was named to the All-ACC Second Team and ACC All-Freshman Team. He was one of just two freshmen to appear on the All-ACC Second Team, joined by his teammate,
Ulfur Bjornsson, and is one of Duke's 35 all-time All-Freshman selections – moving the Blue Devils into a tie with Wake Forest for the most in league history.
Between the end of Duke's 2023 season and his signing with Brentford B, Eyestone spent time with the U.S. U19 National Team, earning a roster spot for two matches in South America as the U19 squad prepared for the CONCACAF U20 Championship. Eyestone closed out the second match in goal, helping the Americans secure a clean sheet in both South American matches.
With his signing to Brentford B, Eyestone becomes the 19th former Blue Devil to be currently playing professionally following their respective Duke careers. Alongside Eyestone, Duke has had five other players from last season's squad enter the professional ranks following the 2023 season. Sophomore
Wayne Frederick was drafted second overall by the Colorado Rapids,
Antino Lopez was picked in the second round by Seattle Sounders FC,
Forster Ajago signed with Nashville SC and
Nick Pariano signed a Homegrown contract with the Philadelphia Union.
To stay up to date with Blue Devils men's soccer, follow the team on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook by searching "DukeMSOC".
Duke Centennial
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