Rodney Hammond Jr., a senior running back for Pittsburgh, has been ruled ineligible for the 2024 season as of Friday, just a day prior to the team’s first game against Kent State.

The university did not provide a specific reason for Hammond’s ineligibility; he remains part of the team and is allowed to practice.

Last season, Hammond led the Panthers with 118 carries, 547 rushing yards, and four rushing touchdowns. Over his three years with Pittsburgh, he has amassed a total of 1,511 rushing yards and scored 14 touchdowns, notably contributing two touchdowns in the Panthers’ 37-35 win against UCLA in the 2022 Sun Bowl.

Head coach Pat Narduzzi announced on Thursday that Desmond Reid, a transfer from Western Carolina, will be the starting running back. When questioned about Hammond, Narduzzi mentioned, “He’s had a solid camp.”

Reid will be working with Kade Bell, who recently took on the role of offensive coordinator for Pittsburgh after previously holding that position at Western Carolina, known for its explosive offense.