University of Pittsburgh Athletics
Newcomer Notebook: Defensive Line
2/5/2026 10:00:00 AM | Football
New Faces Settle In as Offseason Work Begins
PITTSBURGH—Pitt Football's newest defensive line additions are quickly settling into the program as the Panthers begin offseason workouts, bringing a blend of experience, freshness, and local ties to one of the team's most tradition-rich position groups.
Among the newcomers who addressed the media on Wednesday were Eliyt Nairne, Jeremiah Warren, Josh Pittman, Lincoln Hoke, and Reston Lehman. Each shared their different paths to Pittsburgh and discussed their focus on adapting to Pitt's defensive standards.
Nairne Finds Familiarity
Eliyt Nairne entered the transfer portal in early January and said Pitt was one of the first programs to reach out during a fast-moving process.
"I didn't expect to enter the portal," Nairne said. "But once I did, Pitt was one of the first schools that caught my eye."
He cited both football and family connections as key factors in his decision. His grandmother and aunt attended Pitt, making the opportunity to join the Panthers a meaningful one.
Between the hashes, Nairne said effort and energy define his game, noting his commitment to bringing consistent effort and embracing Pitt's defensive identity.
Warren Brings Experience
Jeremiah Warren arrives from Illinois, where he spent three seasons developing under veteran defensive linemen. He said Pitt's defensive scheme and history of producing NFL talent stood out early in the process.
"Pitt allows defensive linemen to play fast and show their athleticism," Warren said.
He added that learning from returning players has helped accelerate his transition and credited veterans in the defensive line room for helping him learn the playbook.
Pittman Adjusting to New Role
Josh Pittman, a former edge player, is working through the transition to a more consistent hand-in-the-dirt role along the defensive front. He said the adjustment to college football's daily routine, from early morning workouts to academics, has been the biggest challenge so far.
But despite the transition, Pittman said the staff and locker room have helped him acclimate quickly.
Hoke Embracing Development
Pittsburgh-native Lincoln Hoke said Pitt's emphasis on detail has stood out early in his time on campus. From stance work to hand placement, he noted the precision required to play defensive line in the ACC.
"There's a lot more that goes into it than people realize," he said.
Hoke believes learning from veteran teammates, including Sean Fitzsimmons, has helped him understand expectations.
Lehman Staying Close to Home
Reston Lehman, another Pittsburgh native, said the opportunity to stay home and play for Pitt made his decision an easy one. Growing up attending Pitt games, Lehman now finds himself wearing the uniform he once watched from the stands.
He also pointed to the benefit of arriving on campus early, allowing him to get a head start on the defensive playbook and strength program ahead of spring practice.
Players Mentioned
