PITTSBURGH- (PTTP) The University of Pittsburgh held its annual Spring Game on Saturday, April 11, in a nearly empty stadium due to the looming NFL Draft in town April 23-25. Optimism is high among the fans and within the program, as they return several exciting pieces and add some new electric playmakers. This spring alone brought in 16 early-enrolled freshmen and 16 transfers, with a few more pieces added this summer.
All eyes are on the returning quarterback, Mason Heintschel. After enrolling as a true freshman in the spring of 2025, Heintschel would eventually be inserted into the lineup and start the final 9 games of the season, going 6-3. He would go on to be named the ACC Quarterback of the Week in week 7, and ACC Rookie of the Week two times. Despite missing one of his most dangerous weapons for this spring game in Cataurus, “Blue” Hicks, Heintschel was efficient moving the ball and looked calmer in the pocket. Both Heintschel and Head Football Coach Pat Narduzzi talked about his growth in trusting his offensive line and the improved play up front.
One of the reasons for this improvement up front is the offensive Ed Conway Award winner, Kendall Stanley. This award goes to the most improved player on offense and defense each spring. Stanley started seven games in 2025 after transferring to Pitt at both guard and tackle, but this spring, he has maintained a steady presence at left guard.
The defensive Ed Conway Award winner is redshirt sophomore Davin Brewton. Playing in 9 games last season, the linebacker stood out this spring for his work ethic, earning Narduzzi’s praise for his film study off the field and his improvement in finishing plays on the field.
The Panthers will open the 2026 season on September 5th vs Miami (OH) at Acrisure Stadium.