By: Jake Renie, Assistant Athletic Director for Communications
DALLAS – Centre alumni and former student-athlete Will Britt '21 found success quickly after graduation, the two-sport athlete originally being hired by the Pittsburgh Steelers back in August of 2021. Less than two years later, Britt found an opening for one of the National Football League's (NFL) most popular franchises and was hired as strategic football analyst, as reported by Jori Epstein and confirmed by Will himself.
The Louisville, Ky., native graduated from Centre with dual degrees in data science and computer science, where he helped create an improved data-based power ranking system to benefit the Kentucky High School Athletics Association and other data to help the Kentucky Wildcats' basketball team.
After joining the Steelers as one of their two members of the analytics staff, Britt made in impact on the organization by being part of the crew that selected Kenny Pickett in the first round (20th pick) of the 2022 NFL Draft. Pickett appeared in five games (four wins) during his rookie campaign, tossing six touchdowns.
"I'm extremely grateful for the opportunity for the professional and personal development with the Steelers these past two years. Much love and respect to a winning organization that gave me my first opportunity in the sports analytics industry." commented Britt, "I'm ready to add value and insights while continuing to grow with a promising team."
Britt is among the three data analysts hired by the Cowboys this offseason, including former Director of Football Research with the Indianapolis Colts John Park and former Player Personnel Analyst for the Baltimore Ravens in Sarah Mallepalle. Dallas' three full-time analytics staff helps join the growing trend of data science in the NFL, only half of franchises in the league holding a three-person staff in Britt's expertise of three or more in the 2022 season.
