How Pitt RB Desmond Reid Plans to Ascend in Year Two

In the press conference, speaking after Pat Narduzzi’s time at the podium, Reid addressed a pair of his backfield teammates when asked about new players in his position group.

“We just brought in...Jy'Kyrian (Turner),” Reid said. “I like what I'm seeing from him. Fast guy. Can make people miss. He's somebody y'all have to watch out for. 

“Also, we brought in Justin (Cook). He came here as a receiver, but we didn't have enough space at running back. Well, a lot of running backs left because we've got the two running backs that's hurt. So, we brought him over. 

“He's coming along real good in the running back room. He can make people miss. He's got natural hands because he's a receiver. He can run routes. So, yeah, both of them guys, they've been doing good since they came in.”

Additionally, the potential No. 2 back in Juelz Goff came up in Reid’s Q&A with the media. 

“Oh, yeah. I mean, I've seen it from the beginning. He's a total different player than he was a year ago. When he first came, thinking a lot, thinking too much, just trying to make all the plays, trying to be correct every play.

“We had to tell him, like, 'You just go out there and play. It's going to come to you. Just stay relaxed.' And you could tell that he's more relaxed now. He's more comfortable in the system. So, it's really showing off now.”

With Reid returning alongside quarterback Eli Holstein as well as receivers Kenny Johnson and Raphael Williams Jr., the Pitt offense is equipped to hang a lot of points in the fall. 

The fact the Panthers offense will be operating in the second year of Kade Bell’s offense amplifies that potential, as do the reinforcements along the offensive line, like 6-foot-8, 310-pound left tackle Jeffrey Persi.