Way late to get to this, but with news scarce, allocating posts is now a careful process.

Mick Williams, if he can stay healthy, can be a big factor on Pitt’s D-line. He was one of three players givn the Ed Conway Award for most improved player after spring practices this season.

“Mick was a dominant player this spring,” Gattuso said. “He has really matured. He has a world of talent and was almost unblockable throughout our 15 spring practices. Mick was playing at a high level at the end of last year and it has carried over to an impressive off-season for him. We are all excited about what he can achieve in 2008.”

Two years ago, Williams, the top reserve at nose tackle behind returning starter Rashaad Duncan, made two tackles during the first three games of 2006 before the season-ending left shoulder history. After off-season surgery, he missed all of the 2007 spring drills to focus on strength training and rehabilitation. He was a 2005 redshirt.

As for another Williams, Mo may have some work to do off the field.

University of Pittsburgh wide receiver Maurice Williams has got some work to do in the classroom if he plans to do work on the football field this upcoming season.

The Strong Vincent graduate will attend summer school in an attempt to become academically eligible to play this year.

“Maurice Williams’ status for the 2008 season is dependent upon him meeting a number of academic requirements,” said E.J. Borghetti, Pitt’s associate athletic director for media relations.

This could be nothing. Just a freshman getting caught up with classes over the summer. But it should be noted so it won’t necessarily be a surprise if at the start of training camp Mo Williams name comes up by Coach Wannstedt as a player not yet on the field.