Pitt Defense Working Under New Coordinator

Cory Sanders takes over as defensive coordinator after 8 years coaching safeties

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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Pitt football saw some coaching changes this offseason, including Randy Bates retiring as defensive coordinator. Cory Sanders, who spent the last eight seasons as the safeties coach, has been promoted to the coordinator role and is now overseeing the entire defense. Pitt's defense features key returning starters as well as several new transfer additions at defensive tackle, linebacker, and cornerback.

Why it matters

Pitt's defense will have a new leader this season as Cory Sanders takes over the coordinator role. How Sanders implements his vision and utilizes the team's experienced returners along with the influx of transfer talent will be crucial to the Panthers' success on that side of the ball.

The details

Sanders, who has been on Pitt's staff since 2018, is now in charge of the entire defense after previously coaching just the safeties. The Panthers' defense features several key returning starters, including safety Cruce Brookins, linebacker Braylan Lovelace, defensive tackle Sean FitzSimmons, defensive end Jimmy Scott, and cornerback Shawn Lee Jr. Pitt also brought in a number of transfer players at defensive tackle, linebacker, and cornerback to bolster the unit.

  • Pitt began spring football practices on Wednesday, March 4, 2026.

The players

Cory Sanders

Pitt's new defensive coordinator, who was previously the safeties coach for the last 8 seasons.

Randy Bates

Pitt's former defensive coordinator who retired this offseason.

Cruce Brookins

Pitt's starting safety who is a key returner on defense.

Braylan Lovelace

Pitt's starting linebacker who is a key returner on defense.

Sean FitzSimmons

Pitt's starting defensive tackle who is a key returner on defense.

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The takeaway

Pitt's defense will have a new leader this season as Cory Sanders takes over as defensive coordinator. How he implements his vision and utilizes the team's experienced returners along with the influx of transfer talent will be crucial to the Panthers' success on that side of the ball.