Pitt hires former Florida Atlantic HC Charlie Partridge as assistant

Charlie Partridge is returning to Pitt, as the school announced Tuesday that the former Florida Atlantic head coach will be the Panthers new defensive line coach.

Partridge previously worked as an assistant at Pitt from 2003-07 before leaving for jobs at Arkansas and Wisconsin.

"I've been a big fan of Charlie's work for a very long time," head coach Pat Narduzzi said in a statement. "I remember watching his defensive lines at Wisconsin and really admiring how they played. Charlie's players reflected his energy and passion. He's an incredibly bright coach who is an excellent teacher and knows how to develop players."

The fact Partridge is familiar with the program was certainly a benefit in the hiring process.

"I am honored to have the opportunity to return to Pitt and work with Coach Narduzzi and his staff," Partridge said. "I'm fully aware that the University of Pittsburgh is a special institution in an amazing city with a top-notch football program that competes at the highest level in the ACC."

Partridge was fired in November after posting a 9-27 record in three seasons as Florida Atlantic head coach.