Ex-Ohio U. linebacker Keye Thompson plans to transfer to Pitt, add versatility to the position

Pitt coach Pat Narduzzi added depth and a possible starter to his linebacker group Thursday when Keye Thompson announced plans to transfer from Ohio University. He is the 10th player to join the team through the transfer portal since the end of the season.

Thompson, who has one season of eligibility remaining, has totaled 190 tackles (16½ for a loss) for the Bobcats over the past two seasons. During the 2023 season when he was first-team All-Mid-American Conference, he filled his stat line with a variety of plays, including 94 tackles (10 for a loss), 7½ sacks, four quarterback hurries, three fumble recoveries, two pass breakups, an interception and forced fumble.

Another transfer for Pitt https://t.co/9fK4t8PliO

— Jerry DiPaola (@JDiPaola_Trib) January 4, 2024

Thompson matriculated to Ohio from Barberton (Ohio) High School in 2018 and went on to display versatility, playing weakside linebacker in 2019 — when he recorded 13 tackles in a game against Western Michigan — before moving into the middle position.

He will be the 11th linebacker — and one of only three seniors — in Pitt assistant coach Ryan Manalac’s room, joining Brandon George and Solomon DeShields. If George remains at middle linebacker, Thompson can move outside, but he also offers depth inside. Narduzzi wants to add versatility and experience to his linebacker group after losing Bangally Kamara to the transfer portal.

Pitt has plenty of other options in eight younger linebackers, including junior Nick Lapi, sophomores Rasheem Biles, Braylan Lovelace, Jordan Bass and Kyle Louis and incoming freshmen Davin Brewton, Cameron Lindsey and Jeremiah Marcelin. All four sophomores received playing time during the 2023 season.