JUST IN: 2026 Athlete Laron Dues Set for Official Visit to West Virginia…

JUST IN: 2026 Athlete Laron Dues Set for Official Visit to West Virginia…

 

One of the most promising names in the 2026 recruiting class, Laron Dues, has officially locked in an upcoming visit to West Virginia University, sources confirmed Tuesday. The 6-foot-1, 185-pound athlete out of Springfield, Ohio, is drawing interest from several Power Five programs, but the Mountaineers are working hard to position themselves as a serious contender in his recruitment.

Dues, a dynamic two-way player for Springfield High School, has made a name for himself with his versatility, football IQ, and explosiveness. Lined up primarily as a wide receiver and defensive back, Dues has shown the type of athleticism and playmaking ability that can translate to the next level. His speed and agility make him a threat after the catch, while his ball-hawking instincts in the secondary are equally impressive.

As it stands, Dues holds early offers from schools like Kentucky, Cincinnati, and Purdue, with interest heating up from others in the Big Ten, ACC, and Big 12. However, West Virginia’s coaching staff has been particularly aggressive in their pursuit, hosting Dues for multiple unofficial visits and maintaining strong communication throughout the evaluation period.

Dues spoke briefly about the opportunity, noting that he’s excited to get a closer look at the Mountaineers’ program.

> “West Virginia has been showing love since the beginning,” Dues said. “I’ve talked with Coach [Neal] Brown and the rest of the staff a few times. They like what I bring to the table, and I’m excited to see the campus and what they’re building down there.”

The official visit, scheduled for later this summer, will give Dues a front-row seat to what West Virginia has to offer both on and off the field. He’ll meet with coaches, tour facilities, interact with current players, and get a feel for the academic side of the university. For the Mountaineers, this is a key opportunity to make a strong impression early in the recruiting cycle.

West Virginia is looking to bolster its 2026 class with high-upside athletes like Dues as the program continues its push to climb back into Big 12 contention. The staff has made it a priority to recruit speed and physicality on both sides of the ball—traits Dues embodies in spades.

Another factor that may weigh in West Virginia’s favor is proximity. While not an in-state prospect, Dues hails from a region that has historically produced several Mountaineer contributors. Building that Ohio pipeline has been a focus for the program in recent years, and securing a commitment from Dues would be a major statement in that regard.

With his recruitment still in the early stages, Dues isn’t expected to make a decision anytime soon. However, the upcoming visit to Morgantown could play a significant role in shaping his final list as more offers roll in.

Keep an eye on Laron Dues this summer—his stock is rising fast, and West Virginia is doing everything it can to be at the front of the line.