The West Virginia Mountaineers went all out on their freshmen and JUCO recruiting class this offseason, bringing in well over 40 players in their Class of 2026. And it wasn't a situation of 'all foam, no beer,' either – WVU landed several four-star prospects and overall, their class was among the best in the nation and the highest-ranked for the program since joining the Big 12.
It can bee difficult for players that young to make an impact immediately, however, and usually only the cream of the crop are able to factor in during their first season on campus. But a few always do, and that number might be even higher for the Mountaineers given the high rate of turnover from ther 2025 roster. Here are five players that could make an early impact for WVU football this coming season.
Kevin Brown - Offensive Line
Kevin Brown was one of the top offensive line prospects in the country. He was also among the 10 players who made up the starting offensive lines during the intrasquad scrimmage at the Gold-Blue Spring Showcase, indicating he's in the two-deep.
His strength and physique are already turnings heads in Morgantown. WVU stacked premier talent on the line in the portal, but Brown may end up being undeniable.
Amari Latimer - Running Back
Latimer was a late-flip on Early Signing Day, and follows his older brother Geimere Latimer to West Virginia – or technically, his brother followed him, transferring in from Wisconsin once the portal opened, but after Amari commited.
Latimer appeared to be the second option at running back behind Cam Cook during spring ball, and buzz during the summer has indicated he's likely going to be leaned upon fairly often in the No. 2 spot. Get used to hearing the name 'Latimer' this fall.
Matt Sieg - Defensive Back/Utility
Sieg was recruited as a safety, and one of the biggest areas of need for the Mountaineers this offseason was at the safety position. But he also was an elite dual-threat quarterback, and has the talent to pop up just about anywhere on the field. Whether he's in the secondary, under center, or spread out in the slot, he could be a potential weapon for West Virginia.
Sieg was among the starters for his team during the spring scrimmage, and Rich Rodriguez has already discussed a desire to potentially use him on both sides of the football. He was a surprise flip and one of the most prized prospects in this class for the Mountaineers, so expect them to find a way to make sure Sieg makes an impact this year.
Vincent Smith - Cornerback
Smith was not an early enrollee, which sets him back a bit behind those freshmen who were on campus for spring ball. But the Mountaineers likely have more questions at cornerback than at any position on defense, and Smith was a four-star prospect. Redshirts have been eliminated with the 5-for-5 eligibility rules now in effect, so don't be surprised to see Smith in the rotation by November.
Greg Wilfred - Wide Receiver
A good kick/punt returner is hard to find, but that just happened to be Wilfred's specialty in high school. He is undersized, but his reputation at the prep level was steeped in his deadly agility and speed. The return game is the quickest way for a freshman to find the field, and it wouldn't be shocking to see Wilfred earn a few opportunities, especially if no upperclassmen stand out in the role.
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