Pitt Football: 3 Early Breakout Candidates for 2022
By Kathryn Rose
2. AJ Woods – CB
With honorable mention all-ACC corner Damarri Mathis gone, Pitt football has an open slot at that position. While MJ Devonshire has also been in the hunt, AJ Woods has emerged during Pitt’s spring practice as the favorite to start on opening day.
Even though Woods only started one game in 2021, he’s been a key reserve on the team. At 5-foot-11, and weighing 195 pounds, he isn’t a big cornerback by any stretch. Yet, his blazing speed and his ability to stick with receivers have put him in starting contention.
That sort of athleticism led to his seven pass breakups in 2021, which tied for the team lead.
Head coach Pat Narduzzi has sung his praises, saying that he “has really been playing at a high level” in spring ball. Woods’ position coach added that “his technique, change of direction is a lot better and he’s getting out of his breaks . . . He’s progressing really well.”
Combine that progression with what he’s done thus far, and a breakout campaign for Woods in 2022 is possible.