Training Camp Takeaways: Day 21
8/19/2025 4:19:00 PM | Football
PITTSBURGH — As training camp continues, the Panthers held their 16th practice of the preseason on Tuesday. Joining Head Coach Pat Narduzzi for media availability were tight end Justin Holmes, linebacker Nick Lapi, offensive lineman Ryan Carretta and defensive back Josh Guerrier —each offering their perspective on the team and the push toward the Aug. 30 season opener against Duquesne.
1. Young Guys Continue to Turn Heads
Pitt's underclassmen have received compliments throughout the entirety of fall camp. Freshmen Cameron Lindsey, Max Hunt and Shawn Lee Jr. garnered more attention from their teammates and head coach on Tuesday.
Coach Narduzzi praised tight end Max Hunt's consistency. "He catches the ball, makes plays, runs well and I'm happy with where he is." Narduzzi added that, "He's a gamer, he just makes plays." Fellow tight end Justin Holmes showed love to Hunt as well, saying, "He's a smart kid. He's going to be a great tight end and he's going to help us this year."
Shawn Lee Jr.'s roommate, defensive back Josh Guerrier, was ecstatic when asked about Lee, saying, "He's showing out right now". Narduzzi praised Lee as well, mentioning that he "has emerged and has been showing some nice things."
Linebacker Nick Lapi noted the growth that redshirt freshman Cameron Lindsey has shown in his second year with the program. "We've seen a lot of growth from him. He's been doing really good."
2. Lapi Eager to Help Wherever is Needed
Fifth-year senior Nick Lapi is ready to help wherever he can, whether that be on the field or in the linebacker room.
Lapi expressed that he feels comfortable at all three linebacker positions, saying he can play "wherever I'm needed." As for off the field, Lapi feels like his role is "to pick up the younger guys [linebackers], coach them up and teach them a few things. Being someone that can be a leader. Lead by example."
3. Panthers Echo Confidence in QB1
Teammates and coaches continue to echo their confidence in quarterback Eli Holstein, who enters his second year as Pitt's starter.
Offensive lineman Ryan Carretta said that Holstein "has stepped up a lot as a leader, which is very beneficial for our offense…we have a lot of confidence in him." While Coach Narduzzi emphasized again that "He's doing a great job leading." Justin Holmes told the media that "the trust is there" between him and Eli, adding that they have been connecting on a lot of passes throughout camp.
4. Carretta's Approach Aids Him in Third Year with Program
Redshirt sophomore Ryan Carretta talked about his approach coming into the 2025 season and how it has helped him.
"I studied more. I learned that the more you know, the faster you can play," Carretta said. "It's definitely benefited the speed I've been able to play at, and that helps a lot."
5. Narduzzi Pleased with Second Scrimmage
The Panthers held their second scrimmage of camp last Sunday night at Acrisure Stadium and Coach Narduzzi liked what he saw.
"The execution and details were much better," Narduzzi said. "I'm excited about what we did."
