The Knights aim to replenish a depleted secondary by hosting the versatile Palmetto standout following his recent de-commitment, eyeing a crucial local addition for the 2027 roster.
The UCF Knights are in the running for class of 2027 defensive back Nazir Pitchford after securing an official visit from the Palmetto native, and his recruitment could be vital for the future.
Pitchford's visit will take place from May 29-31. The 6-foot-1, 175-pound defensive back de-committed from Kansas State on Wednesday, re-opening his recruitment.
UCF has a chance to land another commitment on defense from a class of 2027 recruit in its backyard — the first coming from linebacker Patrick Ryan, who is from Lake Mary.
He is active on both sides of the ball, playing wide receiver as well. Pitchford recorded six tackles and one pass breakup in his junior season, and added 344 yards and seven touchdowns on 34 receptions in seven games.
His focus is on the defensive side of the ball, but it seems like he may have more juice as a receiver, according to his statistics on MaxPreps. There are no recorded defensive stats for Pitchford during his sophomore year, and the Palmetto native hauled in 43 receptions for 752 yards and nine touchdowns in 10 games for Palmetto High School.
Pitchford currently holds over 15 offers, and some of the schools that offered him are Boston College, Louisville and Pittsburgh.
Landing a commitment from Pitchford could be significant for UCF, as its defensive back room has nine seniors: Braeden Marshall, Jayden Bellamy, Antione Jackson, Demari Henderson, Nicholas Antoine, DJ Bell, Jayden Williams, Ty Batrum and Caleb Flagg.
Losing nine veterans is detrimental to the Knights heading into the 2027 season, as they'd have eight returners, barring any of them entering the transfer portal next January.
A commitment from Pitchford would bolster UCF's defensive back depth alongside any future recruits and transfers. Defensive backs coach David Overstreet II would relay his NFL knowledge to help Pitchford understand what's required to play at the next level.
Pitchford also remains in Florida, playing in the Acrisure Bounce House that is three hours away from his high school. Coach Scott Frost highlighted that proximity is one of UCF's selling points in recruiting.
"Florida kids, in particular, can stay close to home and play big-time football, near their family," Frost said on December 2, 2025. "This university speaks for itself, and the city of Orlando speaks for itself."
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