Joey Zelinsky brings proven production and power to Pitt’s defensive line
Zelinsky is a physically sturdy, high-motor DL who has already shown real disruption at the FBS level: in 2024 at Eastern Michigan he posted 29 tackles, 6 tackles for loss, 2 sacks, 2 forced fumbles and a fumble recovery, then followed his Pitt arrival with immediate early-season impact in 2025, including 1.5 sacks through three games. He stands out for leverage and upper-body strength—he reportedly led Pitt’s Pro Day with 26 bench reps—making him a fit for teams that value effort, toughness and gap integrity over flash.
