Desmond Reid: From FCS Standout to ACC Star – The Journey of Pittsburgh’s Breakout Running Back
One of the most surprising stories in the ACC this season was the meteoric rise of Pittsburgh running back Desmond Reid. Once overlooked by major programs, the former FCS standout silenced doubters with an electrifying campaign that showcased his versatility and resilience.
Reid’s path to the ACC was anything but conventional. A native of Miami Gardens, Florida, he attended Miramar High School, a program known for producing notable alumni like Seattle Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith and recording artist Yung Miami. Despite rushing for 1,536 yards and 22 touchdowns during his senior season—and adding another five scores as a receiver and returner—Reid was largely ignored by major college programs. At 5’9” and 170 pounds, many coaches questioned his ability to compete at the next level.
Rated as a three-star prospect by 247Sports and just a two-star by Rivals, Reid received a handful of offers from smaller schools, including Western Carolina, South Dakota, and Florida A&M. With limited options, Reid chose Western Carolina, the program that showed him the most love. It was in Cullowhee, North Carolina, where Reid would begin to carve his name into college football lore.
Overcoming Tragedy
Reid’s journey to success was not without significant hardship. After his freshman year of high school, Reid endured the devastating loss of both his brother and nephew to gun violence. The tragedy nearly led him to quit football altogether. However, Reid found solace on the field, using the sport to channel his grief and honor the memory of his loved ones.
Dominating at the FCS Level
Reid wasted no time making an impact at Western Carolina. As a freshman, he totaled 826 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns on 119 carries, leading the team despite starting only one game. His breakout performances included a 175-yard, two-touchdown effort against Presbyterian and a 112-yard game versus Georgia Tech. By season’s end, he earned numerous accolades, including SoCon Freshman of the Year and a spot on the HERO Sports Freshman All-America team.
His sophomore year was even better. In just eight games, Reid rushed for 897 yards and 13 touchdowns, including a historic performance against The Citadel where he scored five touchdowns in the first half. He added 283 receiving yards to his totals and was named first-team All-Southern Conference and second-team All-American by the AFCA.
After two seasons at Western Carolina, Reid had amassed 1,723 rushing yards, 17 touchdowns on the ground, and another 495 yards and a score as a receiver. On December 23, 2023, Reid entered the transfer portal, ready to prove himself at a higher level.
A Leap to the Power 4
The move to Pittsburgh marked a major leap for Reid. At just 5’8” and 175 pounds, questions about his size resurfaced as he transitioned from the FCS to the ACC. But Reid didn’t just adjust—he thrived.
In his first two games with the Panthers, Reid made an immediate statement, rushing for 293 yards and a touchdown on 33 carries. He also caught nine passes for 117 yards and a score while adding a highlight-reel 78-yard punt return touchdown. By the end of the season, Reid had become one of the most dynamic weapons in college football.
Reid’s first season at the Power 4 level was nothing short of stellar. Over 11 games, he racked up 966 rushing yards and five touchdowns on 184 carries, adding 52 receptions for 579 yards and four touchdowns. His versatility was further showcased on special teams, where he totaled 159 yards and a touchdown on 13 punt returns. His performances earned him All-ACC Second Team honors, solidifying his reputation as one of the most complete backs in the country.
A Bright Future Ahead
Desmond Reid’s journey is a testament to perseverance and grit. From being a lightly recruited high school player to dominating the FCS and making an instant impact in the ACC, Reid has defied expectations at every step. His ability to overcome personal tragedy and thrive at the highest levels of college football speaks volumes about his character and determination. For Pittsburgh, Reid has become a game-changer, and as his career continues to unfold, it’s clear he’s just scratching the surface of his potential. Whether it’s on the field or off, Desmond Reid’s story is far from finished, and the best is yet to come.
