Pitt scores four-star running back

Pitt's 2018 recruiting class got a big boost of star power Wednesday when Washington (DC) HD Woodson running back Mychale Salahuddin committed to the Panthers.

The backstory: Salahuddin is the latest in a trend that has developed around Pitt recruiting in the last four years: top-ranked prospect with national offers maintains a relationship with the Pitt staff throughout the recruiting process and ends up a Panther when all is said and done. Salahuddin even had the added storyline of being committed to a Power Five school - he committed to USC in June - but ultimately choosing Pitt.

The commitment: Salahuddin had mentioned Pitt as a potential official visit dating back to the summer, and he finally got on campus in January. By all accounts, Salahuddin didn't commit on that visit, but he gave strong indications to the Pitt staff and others who were around that weekend that the Panthers were his leader. He made his commitment official Wednesday morning during a Signing Day ceremony at Woodson.

The impact: Salahuddin is a major addition to Pitt's offense. He has speed and playmaking ability and should be good enough to get on the field this season, despite some quality backs returning to the roster.