Former Steinbrenner defensive tackle Desmond Mamudi pledges to USF

TAMPA — USF has received a verbal pledge from Carrollwood Day defensive tackle Desmond “Tank” Mamudi, the first Hillsborough County player from the class of 2021 to commit to the Bulls.

Mamudi (6-foot-3, 300 pounds), who recently transferred from nearby Steinbrenner, announced his commitment Wednesday evening via social media. He was an honorable mention Class 8A All-State selection as a junior last season for the Warriors (12-2), who posted their best season in program history.

A classic run-stuffer with a relentless motor, Mamudi had 85 tackles last year, including a team-best 23 for loss, and tied for the team lead with 5½ sacks. Steinbrenner allowed 72 points in the regular season, including four shutouts.

Last winter, Mamudi finished second in the 285-pound class at the 3A, Region 2 wrestling meet; he went 2-2 with a pair of pins at the state tournament.

He becomes the Bulls’ eighth pledge from the class of 2021 and second in as many days. Australian punter Andrew Stokes committed Tuesday.