Pat Narduzzi and Pitt were able to accomplish their first goal of getting elite 2023 defensive end Jalen Thompson to make an unofficial visit to Pittsburgh.
Because of that, Pitt is in position to reach their second goal of having Thompson make an official visit later this summer.
The 4-star defensive end from Cass Tech in Detroit spent the day on Wednesday learning as much as possible about the Pitt Panther football program and life at the University of Pittsburgh.
“I was really glad that I made the visit,” Thompson told Pittsburgh Sports Now. “I was really able to learn how their defense works and why they’re so good. I learned a lot about the Pitt football team and in particular the values that they have and go by. I learned how they work out and work to get each player better individually. After it was over, I’m really glad I came. When I was there, everyone knew who I was, both on the offense and defensive. They knew me and I didn’t even need to have a name tag. It was very worthwhile coming.”
“Yeah, after yesterday, I’m pretty sure that Pitt will definitely be one of the five official visits that I end up taking.”
Thompson (6’4″, 245) is rated by Rivals as one of the Top 20 defensive ends in the country and the No. 179 overall recruit. Thompson holds 30+ offers, including ones from Pitt, Arkansas, Cincinnati, Georgia, Michigan, Michigan State, Nebraska, Penn State, USC, Notre Dame, Tennessee and West Virginia. Thompson cut down his long list of offers to a Top Ten in February (no order)- Pitt, Penn State, Arkansas, Michigan, Michigan State, Kentucky, USC, Cincinnati, Georgia and Vanderbilt.
