Derrek

Pitts Jr.

This will be Pitts’ third program in four years. Pitts played for West Virginia once upon a time before transferring over to Marshall for 2019 and 2020. Though he seldom played in 2019, Pitts (6'0/187) came on strong in 2020, picking up 42 tackles and three passes defended. Pitts will have two years of playing eligibility with North Carolina State.

Pitts (6'1/180) transferred over from West Virginia to Marshall back in June. Now eligible for the fall campaign, the junior brings a recruiting pedigree -- he was a four-star prep prospect -- and Power 5 experience (19 games played with WVU) to the table for the Thundering Herd. We would not be surprised if he worked his way into a rotational role at Marshall upcoming.

Pitts (6'1/180) is potentially huge get for the Thundering Herd. He’s a former four-star prospect who was originally committed to Penn State, but he ended up with the Mountaineers and had 36 tackles in his 19 games with the Big 12 school, and he has shown the versatility to play both safety and corner. We’re not sure which position he’ll play for Marshall, and we’re also not sure if he’ll be able to play since he leaves after just two years. If he doesn’t get a waiver, he’ll have two years of eligibility starting in 2020.

Most recently, Pitts took unofficial visits to Tennessee and Florida. In addition to those two programs, the 6-foot-1, 180-pounder is interested in Penn State and West Virginia. He is currently training in Arizona with Cardinals star Tyrann Mathieu. " It’s a good experience and I’m learning a lot,” Pitts said. “He’s out here working hard and pushing us to the best of our ability. He’s teaching us how to be an individual person.” He ranks as Rivals No. 19 safety prospect for the 2017 cycle.

“I’ve seen a lot of what’s going on in their recruiting right now and that influenced me a lot,” Pitts said. “They’re putting together a great class right now and I feel like I fit right in with that.” The 6-foot-1, 180-pound safety prospect -- No. 19 at the position by Rivals metrics -- was also considering Maryland and West Virginia. Scout.com’s Brian Dohn notes that Pitts “has plus length and athleticism, and can chase a play to the sideline.” He speculates that it isn’t out of the question that Pitts might shift to outside linebacker at some point in his collegiate career.

Pitts (6'1/180) was a major contributor as a sophomore last year, but he’ll look elsewhere. Sources say this portal entrance will actually follow with a transfer, but it’s unclear where that will be. Unless he receives an NCAA waiver, Pitts will be forced to miss the 2019 season. Pitts has transitioned back and forth from safety to corner throughout his young career.