— By Sean Manning, The Dominion Post
MORGANTOWN. W.Va. — Nick Malone felt like he was a part of something special when he camped at Pitt in June.
The Panthers coaching staff apparently felt the same way, offering the Morgantown High offensive lineman soon after.
On Sunday, Malone committed to Pitt via Twitter.
“The University of Pittsburgh to me just seems like a family-oriented program,” he said. “From the very beginning, they showed interest and put time into me, so I think that helped with me making my decision.”
A staple on the Mohigans’ offensive and defensive lines at 6-foot-6 and 278 pounds, Malone projects as an offensive tackle at the next level. Malone, who also plays basketball for MHS, has not received a rating from the recruiting services.
Pitt coach Pat Narduzzi told Malone he could turn him into an “elite offensive lineman” as he joins a 2019 class ranked 30th by Rivals.
“I was ready to be a part of something special,” Malone said. “Coach Narduzzi has been saying they want me and that they’ve done their homework.”
Malone holds offers from Eastern Kentucky and Robert Morris, while Rutgers has shown interest.
Malone and MHS open their season Aug. 23 by hosting Parkersburg.