After a recent Colorado court granted an injunction that (for now) allows players who have played four college seasons over the past four years an addition year of eligibility, there has been plenty of buzz surrounding the potential return of a few West Virginia players from least season. And during the first day of fall camp on Wednesday, head coach Rich Rodriguez offered his first direct update on the situation.
When asked about these potenial additions and whether or not the team is exploring the option of bringing them back, Rodriguez confirmed the team does have a few open roster spots – and while some familiar faces could return, the program is also approaching the situation tentatively.
"Right now we have it on pause...we're researching it, we're talking to a few that might be eligible, but we're not adding anyone right now for sure," Rodriguez said.
WVU HC Rich Rodriguez confirms he has a 'couple' roster spots open for players who are granted extra eligibility, but is being cautious on adding players at the moment:
— RedditCFB (@RedditCFB) August 5, 2026
"Right now we have it on pause...we're researching it, we're talking to a few that might be eligible, but… pic.twitter.com/ioB32amgJt
Will WVU football add any returning players with additional eligibility?
The names that have been tossed around most prominently include Fred Perry, Eddie Kelly Jr., Oliver Straw, Jason Chambers, and Jacob Barrick. There have also been reports that Jordan Scruggs, who is in a different situation but has officially filed a lawsuit for more eligibility, has been granted an injunction (but that wasn't confimed by Rodriguez).
And while Rodriguez's comments insinuate he has some serious interest in making these additions, and the room on the roster for it, he also pointed out that there is likely an NCAA appeal coming and that this could all be a moot point before the start of the season even gets here.
And with the Rule of Restitution a thing that's in play here, no program wants to risk serious punishment for playing ineligible players down the line. So there is a possibility some these players make a return, but for now, it appears that Rodriguez and his staff are not making any significant decisions – and that's probably the wisest choice for the time being.
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