Pittsburgh Standout Considering the Mountaineers

Morgantown, West Virginia – Neal Brown and staff have worked minor recruiting miracles since arriving in Morgantown. In the case of landing Elliot Donald, a four star defensive end from Pittsburgh, PA, they are undoubtedly the underdogs again. Donald grew up in Pittsburgh, his high school is on the campus of Pitt, and his uncle, NFL superstar Aaron Donald of the Los Angeles Rams, played for the Pitt Panthers during his time in college.

Make no mistake about it, Pitt is the heavy favorite to secure a commitment from Donald. However, you just can’t count out Neal Brown when it comes to convincing recruits to come play football at West Virginia University.

Last summer, the 6’3 250 pound Donald released his top eight teams: Texas A&M, Notre Dame, West Virginia, Penn State, Ohio State, Michigan, LSU and, not surprisingly, Pittsburgh.

According to Adam Friedman, a recruiting analyst for Rivals, West Virginia is right near the top of the list of teams that could land Donald. Friedman listed Pitt as the favorites, with Penn State and West Virginia has very real possibilities. According to Friedman, “West Virginia has entered the picture in a much bigger way in the past few months. Neal Brown and his coaching staff are doing a really good job building relationship in the Pittsburgh area and Donald has taken notice. Donald would have a great opportunity to play early at West Virginia and the coaches know that is something that intrigues him.”

National recruiting analyst Brian Dohn believes Donald has a very bright future: “Frame and length ideal for edge rusher. Must add 20 to 30 pounds. Fast twitched and explosive. Athletic with body control and ability to change re-direct. Quick hands to disengage. Relentless and physical. Has speed and can bend and dip shoulder to get around edge. Has impressive swim move. Understands how to roll shoulders to squeeze through gaps. Must get stronger. Needs consistency staying low at snap. Developing technique and adding combination move sets needed. High level player for a top-20 program. Third day NFL draft pick.”

Elliot Donald could follow in the footsteps of his legendary uncle and play for the Pitt Panthers, or he could carve out his own legacy and play for the West Virginia Mountaineers. Next Friday, Donald will make the tough decision. Stay tuned!