Penn Hills grad hopes to add to list of successful transfers

Josh Rizzo TribLive Sat, Apr 5, 2025 • 11:01 AM

Samford cornerback Dontae Pollard, a Penn Hills graduate, knocks away a pass intended for Auburn receiver Shane Hooks on Sept. 16, 2023.

Defensive back Dontae Pollard wants to be a part of the group of Penn Hills alumni that found success at a higher level in college football.

Corey Thomas Jr. found success at the University of Virginia after starting in Akron. Raion Strader landed with Auburn after excelling at Miami (Ohio) for the past two seasons.

Dante Cephas went from Kent State to Penn State and later to Kansas State. Jaden Dugger started at Georgetown before heading to Louisiana.

Pollard would like to find a way to follow that blueprint.

Pollard started his career at Akron and spent two seasons there. He played for Samford last season.

Pollard appeared in 10 games, made 22 tackles, and intercepted a pass. Pollard is back in the portal again and hopes to find another spot to succeed.