STONY BROOK, N.Y. — Standout linebacker Elias Reynolds is returning home to complete his collegiate football career.

Reynolds, a Brooklyn native who appeared in 25 games over two-plus seasons at the University of Pittsburgh, will join the Stony Brook football team for the upcoming season as a graduate transfer.

He has two seasons of eligibility remaining.

"They had the best to offer: great people, staff, coaches, academics, facilities — and all in my own backyard," Reynolds said. "It doesn't get any better than that. I'm coming home."

The 6-foot-2, 235-pound Reynolds earned a bachelor's degree in communications and a minor in administration of justice from Pitt.

With the Panthers, Reynolds started games at middle linebacker against Virginia and Penn State last season. In 2018, he recorded a career-high 12 tackles against Duke and had seven tackles in the ACC championship game against Clemson.

Reynolds previously starred at Poly Prep Country Day. He earned No. 1 prospect status in the state from Scout while playing alongside current Stony Brook offensive lineman Justin Morgan. Reynolds was a Class AA all-state selection and a member of the American Family Insurance All-USA New York Football and MSG Varsity All-New York City teams.

"I am extremely excited about Elias joining our football program," head coach Chuck Priore said. "I believe we have added a quality person as well as an outstanding football player. We look forward to helping him reach both his academic and athletic goals."