Bethesda native Josh Pitsenberger is headed to the NFL, signing with the Houston Texans as an undrafted free agent after a historic career at Yale.
Pitsenberger, who attended Avalon High School and North Bethesda Middle School, leaves Yale as one of the most accomplished running backs in program history. His senior season alone cemented his legacy, as he carried the ball 313 times for 1,571 yards and 19 touchdowns, all ranking among the top three single-season marks in school history.
He also added 16 receptions for 128 yards, finishing with 1,699 all-purpose yards, the third-highest total in a single season at Yale. His production placed him alongside some of the program’s all-time greats, trailing only standout seasons from Rich Diana in 1980 and 1981.
Over the course of his career, Pitsenberger rushed for 3,435 yards and 41 touchdowns, finishing as Yale’s second all-time leading rusher. He consistently delivered in big moments, recording six multi-touchdown games during his senior campaign, including four games with three touchdowns.
One of his most memorable performances came in a dramatic 43-42 comeback win over Youngstown State on Nov. 29, when he rushed for a career-high 209 yards and scored the game-winning touchdown.
His dominant season earned him widespread recognition across the country. Pitsenberger was named the Asa S. Bushnell Offensive Player of the Year, awarded to the Ivy League’s top offensive player, and was a unanimous First Team All-Ivy selection. He was also a finalist for the Walter Payton Award, given to the top offensive player in the FCS.
In addition, he earned multiple All-America honors, including selections from the AFCA, Stats Perform, and FCS Football Central, along with recognition from the Associated Press. He was also named to the All-ECAC Team and the New England Football Writers Association All-New England Team.
Pitsenberger’s leadership was just as evident off the field, as he served as captain of Yale’s Team 152 during his senior season.
