The Greatest Pitt Panthers Players of All Time

Facts verified July 2026.

Who is the greatest Pitt Panthers player of all time?

By the measure of championships, individual honors, and lasting impact, Tony Dorsett tops most all-time Pitt Panthers rankings. The full top 5 follows.

1. Tony Dorsett RB \u00b7 1973–1976

   The greatest player in Pitt history, Dorsett won the 1976 Heisman Trophy, led the Panthers to a national championship, and became the first back to rush for over 6,000 career yards. A first-ballot College and Pro Football Hall of Famer whose No. 33 is retired.

2. Dan Marino QB \u00b7 1979–1982

   The face of 'QB U,' Marino was a dazzling passer who nearly won the 1981 national championship for Pitt. His gunslinging style and quick release made him a star in Pittsburgh before a Hall of Fame NFL career. One of the most beloved athletes in the city's history.

3. Larry Fitzgerald WR \u00b7 2002–2003

   In just two seasons, Fitzgerald established himself as one of the most spectacular receivers in college football, finishing second in the 2003 Heisman voting. His highlight-reel catches at Pitt foreshadowed a Hall of Fame-caliber NFL career.

4. Hugh Green DE \u00b7 1977–1980

   One of the most dominant defensive players in college football history, Green was a two-time All-American and finished second in the 1980 Heisman voting — an extraordinary result for a defensive lineman. A relentless pass rusher and the anchor of great Pitt defenses.

5. Aaron Donald DT \u00b7 2010–2013

   A disruptive interior force who swept the major national defensive awards in 2013, Donald was unblockable at Pitt despite being undersized for the position. He went on to become one of the greatest defensive players in NFL history, but his dominance began in Pittsburgh.

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