West Virginia has been proactive this spring in filling crucial gaps across its roster. Since the spring transfer portal opened, the Mountaineers have secured 22 transfer commitments. These include offensive tackle Mickel Clay (North Alabama), cornerback Nick Taylor (Appalachian State), tight end Grayson Barnes (Northern Illinois), defensive end Eddie Kelly (Missouri), wide receiver Christian Hamilton (North Carolina), linebacker Ben Bogle (Southern Illinois), offensive lineman Josh Aisosa (Oklahoma), kicker Kade Hensley (Coastal Carolina), wide receiver Justin Smith-Brown (South Carolina State), offensive lineman Malik Agbo (Texas), running back Jaylan Knighton (SMU), and wide receiver Jordan McCants (Jacksonville State).
Additional commitments include offensive lineman Carson Lee (Mississippi State), defensive back Darrian Lewis (Akron), linebacker John Lewis (UNLV), running back Kannon Katzer (Ferris State), offensive lineman Donovan Haslam (Austin Peay), wide receiver Logan Ramper (Slippery Rock), offensive lineman Ayden Bussell (Tennessee), cornerback Ty Crutcher (West Florida), EDGE rusher Devin Grant (Incarnate Word), and tight end Ryan Ward (North Carolina).
Beyond these, three junior college players safety Kaleb Gray (Dodge City C.C.), defensive lineman Elijah Simmons (Garden City C.C.), and running back Cyncir Bowers (Iowa Central C.C.) are also set to join.
These additions have helped shore up several critical areas that needed reinforcement after spring practices. However, the coaching staff is still eyeing additional upgrades. Offensive line remains a focal point, as competition and depth are still priorities, even after the influx of talent under Rich Rodriguez. The secondary could also see more additions, despite recent portal and JUCO signings, depending on who becomes available.
Another potential area for improvement is the interior defensive line. While the Mountaineers have landed edge rushers in both the early and late portal periods, adding a strong presence inside could boost overall depth and performance up front.
It’s also important to note that further roster changes could occur. Some previously committed recruits such as offensive lineman Eidan Buchanan (North Carolina), wide receiver Jalil Hall (Purdue), running back DeAndre Desinor (NC State), and defensive lineman Evan Powell (East Carolina) are no longer expected to join the team.
While significant progress has been made, the roster rebuild isn’t complete just yet. The coaching staff will continue working to finalize the group heading into the season.
Be the first to comment