The news that Pitt fans and the Pitt staff were waiting for became official today as Panthers star safety Paris Ford announced himself via twitter that he would be returning to Pitt for his junior season.
https://twitter.com/diddybop12_/status/1211724580848570368?s=21
Following the regular season, Ford submitted paperwork to the NFL to see what grade he received for the 2020 NFL Draft and despite grading out really well, Ford decided he wanted to return to college for the 2020 season.
Pat Narduzzi already found out last week that both All-American defensive tackle Jaylen Twyman and junior defensive end Patrick Jones would be returning to school and now he has the leader of that defense coming back.
Ford led the Panthers defense with 86 tackles, 3 forced fumbles, 3 interceptions and was named first team All-ACC.
Considering Pitt should once again have a strong defensive unit in 2002 and with the chance to put more on tape for NFL teams, Ford will be one of the more highly rated safeties in the country next season for the 2021 NFL Draft.
The Pitt secondary will be losing cornerback Dane Jackson and potentially Damar Hamlin, who’s petitioning the NCAA for a 5th season, so having Ford return is very important. Archie Collin’s unit will now have Ford, Jason Pinnock, Damarri Mathis and Erick Hallett returning and guys like Marquis Williams, Brandon Hill, A.J. Woods, Judson Tallandier and members of their Class of 2020 will have the chance to earn valuable playing time.
This may end up being an ELITE DEFENSE
With all the D talent coming back vs going to the draft plus the injured guys back in the mix plus a senior 3rd year starting QB only 10-2 or better should be acceptable.