Konata Mumpfield, Kedon Slovis Connecting Through Common Ground at Pitt
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PITTSBURGH -- Konata Mumpfield's decision to transfer from Akron and join the Pitt Panthers came saddled with high hopes. After losing two of their top receivers and starting quarterback from 2021, the Panthers were looking to reload, not rebuild, and that's where Mumpfield came in.
The former freshmen All-American's integration into the Pitt offense has come slowly. His play has lagged behind his own expectations and even compelled his head coach to claim that the receivers often give him "chest pains".
But Mumpfield has made noticeable improvements recently. Despite a larger focus on running the football, he tied a season-high in receptions against Rhode Island with five and caught his first touchdown as a Panther against Western Michigan. He says a tighter bond with his quarterback, Kedon Slovis has helped.
“[We're] taking little steps, going over the playbook, watching film with each other, doing stuff outside of the facility - we may go get something to eat or he’ll invite the guys out and we’ll bond that way,” Mumpfield said.
Slovis and Mumpfield spend a lot of time together not just because quarterbacks and receivers need to develop a certain chemistry. The fact that both players transferred in this season gave them a common experience to connect through.
"We understand maybe the transfer portal and some of the things we had to do because of the portal so it naturally creates that bond," Mumpfield said. "It’s kind of the same thing as a freshman class coming in or sophomore class coming in.”
As he's gotten to know Slovis better off the field, the two have become more connected on it. Mumpfield's taken special care to address timing and make sure that his routes are in tune with what Slovis anticipating down to the step.
“[I worked on] timing with the quarterback and how his feet move, trying to align my feet with his to create rhythm and make sure things are on time,” Mumpfield said.
Mumpfield admitted that these four games have not been his best. He expects more from himself and, while a continued focus on running the football plus injuries at quarterback and wide receiver have made his job harder, Mumpfield has committed himself to fighting through the adversity. There is a long season still ahead and Mumpfield wants to be at his best when by the time it ends.
“I don't think I’ve played my best ball yet," Mumpfield said. "I’m definitely not satisfied with where I’m at as a player. Everybody has adversity and god gives his toughest battles to his toughest soldiers so I think towards the end of the season, I’ll grow a lot and get a lot better.”
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