Pitt received their fourth commitment of the 2015 class when Cornerback Malik Henderson (6’1 ½” 180 lbs.) of Hallandale Beach, Florida jumped on board. He joins Kittanning Tight End Nick Bowers, Altoona Linebacker Kevin Givens and Canon McMillan Offensive Lineman Alex Paulina.
Little did we all know, Henderson actually gave his verbal to Pitt on Monday but didn’t announce it to the public until Wednesday. Henderson says, “I knew I was ready to commit. I talked to (Defensive Tackles) Coach Breckterfield about it. I sent him a picture I got with me and Pitt in the background and said ‘how’s that look, Coach?’ He said ‘it looks great’ Then, I told him I committed and he called me and said ‘are you serious?’
After that, Henderson spoke with Head Coach Paul Chryst. “Coach Chryst was excited for me, he’d love to have me and that it’s a great opportunity.”
“I’ve been talking to (Defensive Backs) Coach Douglas since he got to Pitt. We’ve basically talked about the depth chart, playing time and how they can improve.”
It turns out that it may have been a little more than just Pitt that helped Henderson make his decision. After all, Pitt does share their facilities with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Henderson states, “the Steelers have been my favorite team since I was a little boy. I can’t wait to get up there and meet Coach Tomlin and Troy Polamalu.”
To add icing to the cake for Henderson, Pitt has his intended major. “I plan to major in Architecture and Interior Design. They have it and it’s just a great fit.”
He will be visiting Pitt for the first time around June 20th. There is a camp on the 20th and he isn’t sure if he will be taking part in it or not. “I will have my cleats though.”
Henderson chose Pitt over offers from Alcorn State, Arkansas, FAU, Indiana and UMASS.
Follow Malik on Twitter at @Mikado_Malik