EXCLUSIVE: WVU Football Quarterback Jahiem White Appears On Watch List For Prestigious Leadership Award

EXCLUSIVE: WVU Football Quarterback Jahiem White Appears On Watch List For Prestigious Leadership Award

 

 

West Virginia University (WVU) quarterback Jahiem White continues to turn heads—not just for his electrifying performances on the field, but for his presence off it. In an exclusive development, White has been named to the preseason watch list for the 2025 Jason Witten Collegiate Man of the Year Award, one of college football’s top honors recognizing leadership, integrity, and impact in the community.

White, a junior out of York, Pennsylvania, has emerged as one of the Mountaineers’ most visible leaders, both vocally and by example. Known for his maturity and discipline, White has earned the respect of teammates, coaches, and fans alike since stepping into the starting quarterback role last season.

“Jahiem has been the heartbeat of this team,” said WVU head coach Neal Brown. “He’s someone who holds himself accountable, uplifts others, and takes real ownership of what it means to be a Mountaineer. I’m proud of him and not at all surprised he’s getting national recognition for his leadership.”

The Jason Witten Collegiate Man of the Year Award is presented annually to the college football player who best demonstrates exceptional courage, integrity, and sportsmanship on and off the field. The watch list includes 20 standout athletes from programs across the country. White joins elite company, with previous nominees including stars like Alabama’s Bryce Young and Clemson’s Trevor Lawrence.

While White’s stats speak for themselves—he passed for over 2,800 yards and 24 touchdowns last season—it’s his work beyond the box score that’s capturing national attention. He’s been active in several community outreach efforts, including youth mentorship programs in Morgantown, food drives, and educational initiatives aimed at supporting underserved students.

“He’s got this calmness and composure that makes people listen,” said WVU teammate Wyatt Milum. “It’s not just what he says, it’s how he lives every day. He’s the first in the weight room and the last to leave practice.”

White has also taken a leading role in team development, organizing offseason workouts, player-only meetings, and leadership councils. WVU’s athletic department credits him for helping build a stronger locker room culture focused on accountability and unity.

“I just try to be the guy I needed when I was younger,” White said in an exclusive interview. “Leadership isn’t about yelling or being the loudest. It’s about doing the right thing when nobody’s watching.”

The official list of semifinalists will be announced in November, with three finalists named in December. The award ceremony is scheduled for early 2026 in Frisco, Texas.

For now, White remains focused on the upcoming season as WVU looks to make a serious push in the Big 12 title race.

“This is just more fuel to keep working,” White added. “I’m honored, but the job’s not finished.”

With maturity beyond his years and an unwavering commitment to excellence, Jahiem White is proving he’s much more than a quarterback—he’s the kind of leader college football needs.