Bartholomew possesses the tools to emerge as coveted all-star invite

Published September 1st, 2:13 EDT
by Bo Marchionte

Pittsburgh, PA – The Panthers opened their season with a win over visiting Kent State, 55-24. More importantly, it marked the debut of Eli Holstein who transferred from Alabama earlier this year.

Holstein was impressive and that should lead to big things for tight end Gavin Bartholomew who was named early this summer to the Reese’s Senior Bowl watchlist that featured several key players for the Pitt Panthers in 2024, but today we focus on the 6-foot-5 and 250-pound native from Schuylkill Haven, Pennsylvania.

“You know, just being able to get him the ball in a variety of ways,” Holstein said after Pitts 55-24 win over Kent State, with Bartholomew catching five passes for 66 yards. “Out of the backfield, screens, down the field, anything like that.”

Since joining the program, he has been a key contributor to their offense. With 72 catches for 1,001 yards and seven touchdowns since 2021, Bartholomew provided modest production for the Panthers. However, he is positioned to be one of the biggest beneficiaries of Holstein as quarterback. With new offensive coordinator Kade Bell in Pittsburgh, Bartholomew a team captain will benefit greatly.

Catching all five of his targets against Kent State, his 58 yards after catch on 66 total yards provides insight to his prowess to create with the ball.

Bartholomew has had modest production, but his Luca Krull similarities are ever presence when watching him. Size and athleticism, which make him a reliable target in the passing game. He has strong hands and can make difficult catches in traffic.

His ability to block effectively also adds to his value, making him a versatile player who can contribute both in the run game and as a receiver. His football IQ and route-running skills allow him to create separation from defenders.

“He is able to catch it, run through somebody,” Holstein said. “He for sure going to catch he’s got some great hands, make some plays after the fact, after he has the ball in his hands. And, you know, just kind of a safety blanket for me.

“You know, especially in some protections, you know, when I’m hot, you know, they drop back and always find Gavin. He’s going to be open. He’s going to catch it. He’s going to get me at least 10 or 15, yards, which is awesome.”

What Holstein described about Bartholomew was on display against Kent State where he connected with him on back-to-back passes. The first with the tight end open downfield and carrier defenders after the catch for extra yards.

On the next play, Holstein dumped in underneath Bartholomew who once again made his way up field. Derrick Davis scored from two yards out against the Golden Flashes in Pitts home opener, with Bartholomew with Davis in toe as he helped provide the pathway towards six points.

Early season predictions are Bartholomew is going to be a coveted invite for some of the top collegiate all-star games early in 2025.

Photo Credit Frank Hyatt/College2Pro.com