PITTSBURGH — The Pitt Panthers have been strategically pursuing one of the most promising defensive back prospects in recent years, and their efforts seem to be paying off as of late.
Elijah Dotson, hailing from Belleville High School in the Detroit suburb of Michigan, revealed to Steve Wiltfong of On3 that Pitt is among his top four choices, alongside archrival Penn State, Michigan, and Michigan State.
Dotson announced his commitment date for May 18, having narrowed down his initial top eight list, which included Illinois, Kansas, Purdue, and Tennessee, to just these four schools.
Belleville 2025 WR/S Elijah Dotson wearing Pittsburgh gear this past weekend. pic.twitter.com/uFYl7PJS1E
— The D Zone (@TheD_Zone) April 17, 2024
Pitt was the first to extend an offer to Dotson, with secondary coach Archie Collins actively recruiting from the Detroit area. Dotson further demonstrated his affinity for the program by sporting Pitt gloves during a camp in April.
Dotson has made several visits to Pitt, notably attending events in late March and the Spring game just a few weeks ago.
“They have done a great job,” Dotson shared with Wiltfong. “Pitt has been with me from the beginning, we have built a relationship throughout this whole process, and the coaches make me feel like a priority.”
Dotson emphasized that all four schools are in contention. Penn State has been recruiting him extensively, Michigan recently clinched the National Title, and Michigan State has shown significant interest since the arrival of its new coaching staff.
Dotson is regarded as a four-star athlete by 247Sports, On3, and Rivals. He ranks as the No. 7 recruit in Michigan and No. 44 among safeties according to 247Sports, while On3 places him at No. 4 in the state and the No. 14 athlete for the Class of 2025.
JUNIOR FILM!!
Offensive Stats: 43 rec 1653 all purpose yards 18 total tds‼️Defensive Stats: 66 Tackles 3 Int 11 Pbu‼️https://t.co/QsLhrT0qCj
— Elijah Dotson 4⭐️ATH (@ElijahDotson06) November 10, 2023
A versatile athlete, Dotson has excelled both as a wide receiver and defensive back. His impressive stats include 43 catches, 1,653 all-purpose yards, and 18 total touchdowns on offense, along with 66 tackles, three interceptions, and 11 pass breakups on defense.
Recruiting insiders Allen Trieu, Steve Lorenz, and Brice Marich from 247Sports have all predicted Dotson will choose Pitt via their “Crystal Ball” predictions. On3’s recruiting prediction model also forecasts Dotson’s commitment to Pitt.
Dotson hinted to Wiltfong that one school stands out slightly above the rest, but he remains contemplative and intends to take his time before finalizing his decision.
“There is a school that has an edge,” Dotson acknowledged. “I feel good about each of the four schools and I like coaches, but there is a school I do like a little more. There are still some things I have to think about to make sure, but I do have a feeling.”
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