Pitt received a huge boost on Thursday.

One of the Panthers’ key defenders, Solomon DeShields, took to social media to announce he will return to the team for the 2024 season. Alliance 412, Pitt’s NIL collective, posted that DeShields is “locked in” for 2024. DeShields quoted the post and said, “Let’s do it.”

DeShields was a key contributor for the Panthers this season. The linebacker racked up 58 tackles, 8 tackles for loss, and 2 sacks.

The news is a big boost for the Panthers who have seen several players either enter the transfer portal or declare for the 2024 NFL Draft. Bangally Kamara and Shayne Simon will not be back in 2024, so it’s a good thing the Panthers were able to hold on to another linebacker in DeShields.

The 2023 campaign was a difficult one for the Panthers. The team managed just a 3-9 record after appearing in a bowl game in the previous 2 seasons. While the Panthers finished with 9 losses, the defense was much better than the offense. The team finished the 2023 season No. 35 nationally in sacks, with the No. 45 pass defense, and the No. 51 total defense.

DeShields has racked up 85 tackles and 6 sacks over 3 seasons in Pittsburgh. In 2024, the linebacker will have a chance to build off of his impressive 2023 campaign.