Pitt football coach Dave Wannstedt took another step in rebuilding the Panthers' offensive line yesterday when he received a verbal commitment from Upper Perkiomen High School tackle John Fieger.

He is the Panthers' fifth recruit for the class of 2007 and the second offensive lineman. Upper Perkiomen is a Class AAA school in Pennsburg, Montgomery County, close to the border of Berks and Lehigh counties.

Fieger, 6 feet 5, 274 pounds, committed to the Panthers during an unofficial visit. He and several other key prospects were at the South Side complex yesterday as coaches try to nail down a few more commitments before they begin preparations for training camp. He arrived on campus Tuesday and by yesterday morning had made his decision.

"There really was nothing not to love about the city, the campus and the coaching staff," said Fieger, who is the first player from Upper Perkiomen to receive a Division I scholarship since 1968. "I really fit in well there. I know they are trying to rebuild the offensive line and hopefully I can be a big part of that."

Fieger benches 280 pounds 18 times and squats 475. He had offers from Akron and Temple and also was attracting interest from Virginia and Connecticut.

Fieger's commitment means the Panthers are halfway to finding four offensive linemen for the class of '07.

"I think early playing time wasn't a big factor -- I'd probably rather redshirt because I think that's what is best for a player at my position," Fieger said.

"Besides the coaches, who I love and really trust, I think the other guys in my class, like [Manheim Township's] Pat Bostick and Chris Jacobson [Keystone Oaks], they are great players and quality guys. I really look forward to getting out there and getting started. This is an exciting day for me and my family."