Pitt has a chance to make some history on Saturday, and a former Panther is coming back to help the Panthers do so.
Pat Narduzzi announced Saturday morning that former Pitt tight end J.P. Holtz is returning to serve as the honorary captain in the non-conference finale against Youngstown State. Holtz played the Penguins twice in his career, a win and a loss, so he’s the perfect voice to prepare the Panthers.
Pat Narduzzi announced Holtz’s captainship Saturday morning and outlined his credentials:
- 2015 team captain
- 4-year letterman
- 4-time Bowler (BBVA Compass, Little Caesar’s, Armed Forces and Military)
- 2015 All-ACC
- 8-year NFL career
Holtz is a local kid, attending Shaler Area High School before committing to Pitt in the class of 2012, who made an impact for the Panthers as a four-year contributor.
Holtz racked up 81 receptions for 931 yards (11.5 yards per reception) and 11 touchdowns — including 24 receptions for 350 yards (14.6 yards per reception) and four touchdowns as a senior in 2015.
He went undrafted in the 2016 NFL Draft but was signed by the Cleveland Browns and kicked off a nearly decade-long NFL career.
Holtz spent time with the Browns, Washington Redskins, Chicago Bears and New Orleans Saints. He’s caught seven passes for 91 yards in his NFL career.
Holtz is the fourth honorary captain this season, joining former offensive lineman Jason Pinkston, former long snapper Cal Adomitis and former offensive lineman Mike McGlynn.
Pitt is looking to avoid a big slip-up against Youngstown State, coming off one of the biggest wins of the young college football season, and a win would secure an undefeated non-conference slate for the first time in program history. Kickoff is slated for 3:30 p.m. at Acrisure Stadium.
