22. Pitt Panthers
2022 future QB ranking: Not ranked2021 future offense ranking: Not ranked
Scouting the Panthers: The reigning ACC champions lose their quarterback (Heisman Trophy finalist Kenny Pickett) and playcaller (Mark Whipple, who left for Nebraska) from a record-setting offense, but return enough to continue producing at a high level. Quarterback Kedon Slovis, a transfer from USC, brings 26 career starts and impressive numbers (7,576 pass yards, 58 touchdowns). There's some insurance behind him with Nick Patti, Davis Beville and Joey Yellen, although Pitt will need to firm up its plan for 2023 and 2024. Slovis will throw to an elite group of wide receivers, headlined by Biletnikoff Award winner Jordan Addison, who led the FBS with 17 touchdowns and set a team record with 100 receptions in 2021. Pitt also gets senior Jared Wayne (47 receptions, 658 yards, 6 touchdowns last fall), as well as Akron transfer Konata Mumpfield, who earned freshman All-America honors in 2021 and likely will lead the group when Addison and Wayne depart. The Panthers lose top tight end Lucas Krull but regain Gavin Bartholomew, who had 28 receptions for 346 yards last year and is only a sophomore. Pitt's run game should remain strong under veteran coordinator Frank Cignetti Jr., as top rushers Israel Abanikanda, Vincent Davis and Rodney Hammond Jr. all return after eclipsing 500 yards in 2021. Abanikanda and Hammond have multiple years of eligibility left.
Offensive line is another strength, at least in the short term, as Pitt returns its entire starting five, including third-team All-ACC selections Gabe Houy at tackle and Marcus Minor at guard. The concern is that all five are set to depart after the 2022 season, so building depth for 2023 and 2024 will be essential for veteran line coach Dave Borbely. Pitt's recruiting isn't overly glitzy, but coach Pat Narduzzi's program has a track record of identifying and developing really good players. That will be put to the test after so many players leave following this fall.
