V’Lique Carter enters NCAA transfer portal

Pitt running back V’Lique Carter entered the transfer portal on Tuesday, according to John McGonigal of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. The rising junior was recruited as a defensive back in the 2018 class but became a standout in the offensive backfield with a big game in his debut as a freshman.

The move comes two seasons into Carter’s tenure at Pitt. The native of West Palm Beach, Florida, had a breakout performance in his first game with the Panthers, as he ran for 137 yards and two touchdowns on seven carries against Duke on Oct. 27, 2018. However, since then he has not reached 50 yards in a game.

In addition, Pat Narduzzi and his staff have recruited running backs heavily in recent years, bringing in Israel Abanikanda, Daniel Carter and Vincent Davis at the position since Carter’s arrival. Pitt also briefly had Mychale Salahuddin on its roster and had a commitment from blue-chip running back Henry Parrish. And A.J. Davis, Todd Sibley and Kyle Vreen are all returning as upperclassmen in 2020.

Prior to committing to Pitt on Dec. 18, 2017, Carter held offers from Iowa State, Kentucky, Oklahoma, Purdue and UCF, among others. However, he has not indicated where he may transfer to. Unless he is granted a waiver, Carter will have to sit out the 2020 season if he lands at another FBS program. However, if he heads to an FCS school, like Salahuddin, he will be eligible to play immediately.