@cinnamon1212 , I suppose it’s possibly for ED2? (I know a recruit who did ED2 for NESCAC soccer a few years ago. The musical chairs of recruitment had left a coach short after ED1 and things hadn’t fallen into place for that recruit.)
OP may not want to waste ED2 if it’s a no. But I agree that the timing is unusual.
I also agree that the timing is unusual. Maybe the coach has a fully supported slot that’s use it or lose it in ED1? Regardless, what’s most important is that OP continues communicating with the coach and doing what they say!
OP stated that they’ve already applied ED1 to Grinnell. Which is why the “pre read” doesn’t really make much sense.
The D3 recruiting process is very confusing. My daughter did about 5 prereads with unofficial visits last spring and official overnights this fall. The coaches all said to let them know when she submitted her application and they’d contact admissions with their support. But none made an official offer. (With all she’d be their top athlete…so it’s confusing.)