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Pitt Fall Camp Preview: Safety

Looking at Pitt's safety depth in 2015.

Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

  • Pat Amara 6'2" 195 Sophomore (Appeared in 10 games, starting 2 in 2014; 18 total tackles 1 interception)
  • Mark Bernsdorff 5'11" 185 Sophomore (Transfer from Wheaton College; Walk-on)
  • Reggie Mitchell 6'0" 190 Junior (Started all 13 games in 2014; 62 total tackles)
  • Jevonte Pitts 5'11" 200 Junior (Appeared in four games in 2014)
  • Jay Stocker 6'2" 185 Freshman (Incoming three-star recruit)
  • Terrish Webb 5'11" 190 Junior (Started 8 games in 2014; 33 total tackles 2 interceptions)
  • Jordan Whitehead 5'11" 185 Freshman (Incoming four-star recruit)
  • Jalen Williams 6'2" 205 Freshman (Redshirt in 2014)
Projected Starters - Terrish Webb  Reggie MItchell.

Safety will be an interesting spot because the two best players are used to playing the same spot - strong safety.  Reggie Mitchell is obviously a versatile guy after playing cornerback for half the year before switching back, and he could be a candidate to play free safety. Mitchell had a steady year last year, and proved to be one of the most indispensable players on the defense.

Terrish Webb hauled in two interceptions in the early part of the year, which led the team in 2014. The Clairton product looked solid before a knee injury sidelined him for the last five games of the season.  Webb will be a key competent of the secondary in 2015.


Top Reserves - Jordan Whitehead  Pat Amara

OK, as it stands now we have heard the idea that Jordan Whitehead may be playing safety this year.  It comes as quite the surprise, as many Pitt fans expected him to come in and be one of the team's top corners.  Wherever he plays, he will be a high impact player. Whitehead could find his way at either spot on defense, may see some time on offense, and will get a long look as a return man.  Whitehead is the one true freshman for certain that will see the field this season.

Pat Amara may have surprised some for his big role on the team in 2014.  Many people expected Amara to take a redshirt, but he made a name for himself and appeared in 10 games. Amara has a lot of talent, and will have a big role again this season as he rounds out a strong unit as safety.


The Rest - Mark Bernsdorff  Jevonte Pitts  Jay Stocker   Jalen Williams

Mark Bernsdorff is a walk-on joining the team this year.  Bernsdorff originally started his collegiate career in the division three ranks, and will be here for depth and special teams primarily.

Jevonte Pitts should factor in prominently with special teams, and should push to be on the two-deep depth chart.  He will be directly affected by Jordan Whitehead's status the most among the safeties.

Jay Stocker is a promising recruit, but should be on his way for a redshirt. Stocker had a good offer sheet and comes into the program with some pedigree, but the depth at the position shouldn't force him into action this season.

Jalen Williams redshirted in 2014, and will push for playing time on special teams with an outside chance of sneaking onto the two-deep depth chart.