Pitt, with the help of Alliance 412, is securing all of its start players ahead of the 2025 season. You can never say never, but the Panthers appear to be in good shape.
Rashad Battle, BJ Williams, Jake Overman and Sean FitzSimmons have already announced they’re returning next season, and Nick James is the latest to do so.
James — a 6-foot-2, 290-pound defensive tackle from Prattville, Ala. — announced on social media that he’s coming back next season for his second with the program. And he’s coming off an All-ACC honorable mention campaign.
James emerged as a starting defensive tackle after transferring from Indiana before the season, starting 10 games this season — missing one to injury. He recorded 19 tackles (seven solo), two tackles for loss and a pass breakup.
According to PFF, James played 354 defensive snaps this season, recording 12 run stops — with just one missed tackle.
The stats don’t jump off the screen, but James — along with FitzSimmons — was a vitally important run defender and has the potential to get better in Year 2 in the system.
Pitt is set to return all of its defensive tackle depth, including FitzSimmons, James and Isaiah Neal. Francis Brewu and Jeahsear Whittington are in line for much more playing time as the second-year duo enters their second season. The future is bright on the defensive line.
Pitt will still look to add another defensive lineman or two, especially on the end, from the transfer portal.
