Jared

Wayne

With Allison and Wayne both out, and Taysir Mack considered to be questionable due to injury, the Panthers will be shorthanded Saturday afternoon. DJ Turner and Shocky Jacques-Louis are among the wide receivers who are available to play, and they’ll be QB Kenny Pickett’s most trusted options in the passing game. In total at least eight players are out due to COVID-19 protocols alone.

The returns of Addison and Wayne will give the Panthers a welcome boost at the wide receiver position, with the former being able to play despite injuring his shoulder during last weekend’s loss to NC State. Addison, who’s only a freshman, has accounted for at least 55 yards and one touchdown reception in each of the Panthers’ last three games. Also taking part in pregame warmups is TE Kyi Wright, who will help fill the void left by the injured Lucas Krull.

Wayne (6'3/185) caught five passes for 59 yards and a touchdown in Pitt’s 21-10 victory over Syracuse two weeks ago, but did not record a reception in either of Pitt’s other two games as he battles nagging injuries. Taysir Mack should receive a full workload on the outside in Wayne’s absence and slot receiver Jordan Addison will likely see double-digit targets.

Wayne (6'3/185) came into the contest having logged just 115 receiving yards on nine catches for the season. A nice effort, here. The freshman will see bowl action with the Panthers upcoming, after which he will look to take a developmental step forward this offseason.