Pitt Running Back Desmond Reid Declares for 2026 NFL Draft
After two seasons with the Pitt football program, senior running back Desmond Reid is turning towards the next chapter of his playing career.
Reid announced on Friday that he has declared for the 2026 NFL Draft. He will forego Pitt’s bowl game against East Carolina.
“First off, I would like to thank God for everything he has done for me. Nothing is possible without him,” Reid began in a post on X. “Being from Miami Gardens not a lot of people get to experience what I experience. This process has been a long ride but blessed to be where I’m at. I would like to thank my parents for always being there for me and making me the person I am today. Also, I would like to thank my brothers for supporting me and for making me enjoy life. I would like to thank my Coach Kerwin, Coach Bell and Coach Duzz for allowing me to be a part of the program. Also, I would like to thank Coach L, Coach JJ, Coach Darveau and Coach Bro for believing in me and making me a better person and player. Finally, I would like to thank my teammates for making college a fun experience with memorable moments.
“I would like to sincerely thank Western Carolina University and the University of Pittsburgh for the opportunity they gave me to continue my athletic and academic journey. Both institutions allowed me to compete at a high level while pursuing my education, helping me grow not only as an athlete but also as a student and person.
“And to my fans and everyone who supported me throughout my college career, thank you. With that being said, I will be declaring for the 2026 NFL Draft.”
Reid transferred to Pitt along with offensive coordinator Kade Bell after two seasons at Western Carolina. The 5-8, 175-pound running back transition to the Power Four level seamlessly by turning in a Second-Team All-American and a First-Team All-ACC campaign as an all-purpose weapon.
In 2024, Reid compiled 962 rushing yards and five touchdowns to go along with 579 receiving yards and four scores. He totaled 159 punt return yards with a 78-yard touchdown return. He finished fifth nationally in terms of all-purpose yards per game with 154.91.
Reid returned for his senior season this fall, but it went differently than the Panthers had hoped for. Reid was in and out of the lineup with a variety of injuries, including an ankle ailment. Still, he managed to play in seven games where he registered 278 rushing yards and two touchdowns, 317 receiving yards and a pair of scores at Florida State and 105 punt return yards with an 88-yard touchdown return.
At Western Carolina, Reid played in 18 games as he rushed for 1,723 yards and 17 touchdowns to go along with 42 receptions for 495 yards and a touchdown.
According to Trevor Sikkema, Pro Football Focus has Reid ranked as the 19th-best running back in the 2026 draft class and the 283rd overall prospect.
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