West Virginia Football Signs 45 Players on Day One of Early Period

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – West Virginia University (WVU) made significant strides on the first day of the early football signing period for Division I teams by securing 45 new players. The Mountaineers welcomed 37 high school athletes and eight junior college transfers, marking a pivotal moment in their recruitment strategy as they aim to strengthen their roster for the upcoming season.

Among the standout signings is SirPaul Cheeks, a 5-foot-7 running back from Richmond, Virginia. Cheeks, who previously played for Varina High School, had an impressive high school career, accumulating 2,375 all-purpose yards and scoring 26 touchdowns. Despite suffering a season-ending knee injury in October, his previous accolades include a first-team all-state selection and multiple regional honors. He was highly regarded as the number 21 player in Virginia and the 52nd top running back nationally, receiving offers from several schools, including Kentucky and Virginia Tech.

Another noteworthy addition is Amari Latimer, a 6-foot, 228-pound running back from Fairburn, Georgia, who holds the record as Sandy Creek High School’s all-time leading rusher. Latimer’s remarkable high school career includes four state championships and impressive statistics, including 5,332 career rushing yards and 40 touchdowns. As a four-star prospect, he was among the most sought-after players in the country, receiving offers from top programs like Alabama, Florida, and Georgia.

The defensive line was bolstered by Yendor Mack, a 6-foot-2, 244-pound defensive tackle from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Mack earned three-time First Team All-Mid Penn Colonial honors and recorded 47 tackles in his senior year, showcasing his ability to disrupt opposing offenses. His commitment adds depth to a defensive unit focusing on improving its performance in the upcoming season.

Another key recruit is Jonas Muya, a 6-foot-7 offensive tackle from Fort Wayne, Indiana, who transitioned to football after a successful basketball career. His size and athleticism make him a valuable asset to the Mountaineers’ offensive line. Muya’s experience includes helping his high school team achieve significant rushing and passing yardage, making him a versatile addition as the team seeks to enhance its offensive strategies.

WVU also signed John Johnson III, a dual-threat athlete from New Orleans, Louisiana, who excelled as both a quarterback and cornerback at Edna Karr High School. His versatility and leadership helped his team achieve a perfect 12-0 record, demonstrating his ability to contribute on both sides of the ball. Johnson’s performance included over 1,000 rushing yards and 21 touchdowns during the playoffs, making him a valuable addition to the Mountaineers’ roster.

In addition to these players, the Mountaineers secured several other athletes who bring a mix of experience and potential to the program. Greg Wilfred, a 5-foot-9 slot receiver from New Orleans, was instrumental in his high school team’s success, contributing to an offense that averaged 44.1 points per game. His speed and agility will enhance WVU’s offensive tactics.

As Rich Rodriguez, head coach of WVU, outlines the next steps in the recruiting process, the focus will be on integrating these new players into the team culture and preparing them for the challenges of collegiate football. The early signing period represents a critical phase in building a competitive team for the 2026 season.

With this recruitment class, WVU aims to enhance its performance on the field, and the commitment of these talented athletes signals a proactive approach to strengthening the program. The Mountaineers will continue to monitor the recruitment landscape as they prepare for the upcoming season, looking to build on their recent successes and foster a culture of excellence within the team.