Pitt has three commitments thus far for the 2015 class. Those three are: Altoona Linebacker Kevin Givens, Cannon McMillan Offensive Lineman Alex Paulina and Kittanning Tight End Nick Bowers. Expect that number to grow as Pitt heads into summer camps.
We caught up with commit Kevin Givens (6’2” 230 lbs.) to discuss his commitment, the activity since he committed in February and looking ahead into his senior season.
If you watch Givens’ tape, you’ll see firsthand that he is a strong young man. He consistently takes down the ball carrier with force. He has an exceptional first step and great range. Some clips that stuck out in his tape are against AAAA powerhouse Pittsburgh Central Catholic. Recently, Givens stated that his bench press is 365, his squat is 575 and his power clean is 325.
Some kids like the recruiting process and some just aren’t fans of it. Givens was not a fan of the recruiting process. He stated, “I didn’t like it. I’m glad I got it over with. There were always coaches coming in and so much mail.”
Since his commitment, the process has died down for Givens. “No college coaches have contacted me. It’s been all Pitt.” When he decided that Pitt was it, there were a few factors that helped his decision. “Being close to home is nice. The coaches are really cool and honest. Plus, there’s a good chance to play. Coach (Chris) Haering was my recruiting coach and he seems really cool and he’s honest. He’s a good coach.”
There’s been speculation on what position Givens will play whether Middle Linebacker, Outside Linebacker or Defensive End but he cleared it up for everyone. “They want me as a rush end”
Givens visited Pitt for Junior Day and also attended a few basketball games. He will be back at Pitt in early June for a summer camp where he plans to workout with the rest of the recruits.
His high school, Altoona, finished the 2013 season with a 2-8 record and he’s hopeful that will change for 2014. “I think people are starting to step up and I’m hoping we can turn it around.”
Follow Kevin on Twitter at @Kittykev