The NFL announced its list of invited prospects on Wednesday, with two players from the University of Pittsburgh making the cut for the 2026 NFL Combine. Linebacker Kyle Louis and running back Desmond Reid are set to represent Pitt at the event scheduled for February 23 through March 2 in Indianapolis. This prestigious opportunity spotlights top talent ahead of the upcoming NFL Draft.
Invitation Highlights for Louis and Reid Among 319 Prospects
Among 319 athletes invited to this year’s combine, Pitt’s Lawrence Linebacker Kyle Louis and running back Desmond Reid were officially named. Pitt’s football program has a solid history of sending multiple players to the combine, continuing a tradition that fosters its visibility at the professional level. The NFL Combine provides a critical platform where players showcase their skills to scouts, coaches, and general managers.
Pitt’s Ongoing NFL Draft Presence
Pitt has maintained consistent representation in recent combines. Last year, wide receiver Konata Mumpfield, tight end Gavin Bartholomew, and kicker Ben Sauls participated, while offensive lineman Branson Taylor attended but did not compete due to injury recovery. This ongoing trend demonstrates Pitt’s ability to develop NFL-caliber talent across multiple positions.
Kyle Louis’s Senior Bowl Impact and Career Accolades
Kyle Louis made waves at the Senior Bowl last month, particularly with his standout performances in one-on-one drills that boosted his draft prospects. Versatile as a smaller linebacker or hybrid safety, Louis declared for the NFL draft in December and opted out of Pitt’s participation in the Military Bowl to prepare for the next level.
Here is every one-on-one coverage rep by Pittsburgh LB Kyle Louis: pic.twitter.com/QEcl5gWuFw— Marcus Mosher (@Marcus_Mosher) January 30, 2026
The 6-foot-1, 220-pound Louis compiled an impressive collegiate career over four seasons at Pitt. His 2024 season earned him First-Team All-American and First-Team All-ACC honors, finishing with 101 tackles, 15.5 tackles for loss, seven sacks, four interceptions, three pass breakups, and a forced fumble. In 2025, he was named Second-Team All-ACC despite missing a game and a half due to injury, recording 81 tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss, three sacks, two interceptions, five pass breakups, two fumble recoveries, and a forced fumble.
Desmond Reid’s Transition and Versatile Role at Pitt
Desmond Reid also entered the draft process in December and showcased his talents at the Hula Bowl in January. After transferring from Western Carolina alongside offensive coordinator Kade Bell, Reid adapted quickly to the Power Five level. The 5-foot-8, 175-pound running back earned Second-Team All-American and First-Team All-ACC recognition as a dynamic all-purpose player.
In the 2024 season, Reid amassed 962 rushing yards with five touchdowns and added 579 receiving yards and four scores. He also contributed significantly on special teams with 159 punt return yards, including a 78-yard touchdown return. Reid ranked fifth nationwide in all-purpose yards per game with an average of 154.91.
Injuries Affect Reid’s Senior Year but Impact Remains
Reid’s senior campaign in 2025 was hampered by injuries, including an ankle issue that limited his availability. Despite playing only seven games, he produced 278 rushing yards with two touchdowns, 317 receiving yards with two touchdowns against Florida State, and 105 punt return yards highlighted by an 88-yard touchdown return. His ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game remained evident despite the setbacks.
Importance of Pitt Players at the NFL Combine and Future Prospects
The invitations extended to Kyle Louis and Desmond Reid underscore Pitt’s continued role as a producer of NFL-ready talent. Their performances at the combine will be closely watched by NFL teams as Louis’s versatility on defense and Reid’s dynamic offensive and special teams skills offer promising professional potential. This participation also reflects the program’s ongoing commitment to develop athletes capable of competing at the highest level.
As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, the exposure and evaluation gained at the combine will be pivotal for both players’ draft stock. Their success may inspire future Panthers to strive for similar recognition, strengthening Pitt’s profile within collegiate football and the professional ranks.
https://twitter.com/Pitt_FB/status/2021661825197388270
Here is every one-on-one coverage rep by Pittsburgh LB Kyle Louis: pic.twitter.com/QEcl5gWuFw
— Marcus Mosher (@Marcus_Mosher) January 30, 2026
