Pitt Panthers Defensive Stars to Watch

The Pittsburgh Panthers' defense was one of the best-run defenses in the county last season. Pitt and Pat Narduzzi ranked seventh in rush defense, giving up just 98 yards per game. The Panthers had seven defensive players move on to the NFL, and that will be a lot of talent to replace. Pittsburgh does have a lot of depth on the defensive line. The Defensive line could go 10-11 players deep, which should keep players (like the first one below!) fresh. 

Defensive Tackle David Green 

David Green played in 14 games last season for the Panthers; he recorded 22 tackles, 4.5 for a loss, and 3.5 sacks. Green graded out as an above-average run defender as well. In his time as a Panther, Green has 59 tackles, 10.5 tackles for a loss, 6.5 sacks, a forced fumble, and two pass breakups. Green will provide veteran leadership to Pittsburgh's defensive line and the defense as a hole. 

Linebacker Bangally Kamara 

2022 was Bangally Kamara's first season as a full-time starter. He produced 49 tackles, three for a loss, one sack, and one interception, as he burst onto the scene as a playmaker for this Pitt team.

Kamara can fly sideline to sideline, cover competently, and lays the wood when he tackles. If Kamara can improve his coverage skills and produce more as a pass rusher, he could be a possible first-round pick. 

Cornerbacks M.J. Devonshire and Marquis Brown 

M.J. Devonshire will be a crucial factor in the Panthers' defense after tying the team lead in interceptions with three (two of which he returned for touchdowns). He also recorded the second-most punt returns of 20 yards or more in college football last season and will be one of the more dangerous special teamers again this season. 

Last year, he earned All-ACC consideration as both a defensive back and punt returner and became the first Pittsburgh player to return a touchdown by way of both an interception and punt return since Darrelle Revis in 2006. 

Marquis Williams compiled 24 tackles, one tackle for loss, two interceptions returned for touchdowns, a pass breakup, and a forced fumble. According to PFF, Williams allowed just 17 receptions on 29 targets in 2022 — allowing just one touchdown in coverage. Williams played 476 defensive snaps and was rated Pittsburgh's highest-ranked cornerback in pass coverage. In his Pitt career, Williams has recorded 83 tackles, three tackles for loss, five interceptions, two defensive touchdowns, eight pass breakups, and a forced fumble. 

Devonshire and Williams make up one of the best cornerbacks duos in the country and should make the Panthers' defense tough to pass against.