As the December early signing period for college football approaches, West Virginia University (WVU) is gearing up for a shift in how it handles recruiting. Traditionally, the early signing period has been a key moment for programs across the country to solidify their classes, and West Virginia is no exception. However, with evolving trends in college football, including the transfer portal and a shifting landscape of recruiting tactics, WVU’s approach is undergoing important changes.

 

The early signing period, which runs from December 20–22 this year, has become increasingly significant in recent seasons. Many programs have chosen to lock in commitments from high school players before Christmas, especially as the January National Signing Day has become less of a focal point. West Virginia, under head coach Neal Brown, is no stranger to the pressures of recruiting, but this year, it faces an added layer of complexity with a focus on finding balance in their approach.

 

For Brown and his staff, recruiting is more than just signing high school players. The addition of the transfer portal in recent years has provided teams with a powerful tool for roster construction, allowing them to fill immediate needs and bolster their squads with more experienced players. West Virginia is preparing to use this tool heavily, as it seeks to improve its depth and competitiveness in the Big 12 Conference.

 

In recent seasons, West Virginia’s recruiting efforts have been concentrated on developing talent and improving player development within the program. Brown has emphasized the importance of building a foundation that can produce long-term success. However, the dynamic of recruiting has evolved with the influx of transfers. This year, West Virginia’s coaching staff will be evaluating both high school and transfer prospects simultaneously, ensuring that they have the right mix of young talent and immediate contributors.

 

One major shift for the Mountaineers this year is their emphasis on addressing key positions through the transfer portal. West Virginia has seen several high-profile transfers enter their program over the past few years, and this cycle will be no different. After a disappointing 2023 season, which included struggles in areas like the offensive line and defensive backfield, the team is looking to shore up weaknesses by signing experienced players who can make an immediate impact.

 

In addition to the transfer portal, West Virginia’s traditional recruiting efforts are still going strong. Brown has placed significant emphasis on developing relationships with high school coaches, particularly in the state of West Virginia and surrounding areas. The program has also expanded its recruiting footprint, focusing on areas like Florida and Texas, where talent-rich high schools produce players who can potentially contribute early in their careers.

 

West Virginia’s recruitment strategy has been reshaped by a combination of internal and external factors. While the Mountaineers have been able to land some highly rated recruits, the competitive landscape has changed dramatically. Programs across the country are now more active in the transfer portal, and the influx of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) money has changed the dynamics of recruitment. West Virginia is not immune to these shifts, but it remains committed to using all available resources, including transfers, to stay competitive within their conference.

 

In preparation for the early signing period, West Virginia is closely monitoring its roster needs. The Mountaineers are particularly focused on bolstering their offensive and defensive lines, as those have been areas of concern for several seasons. Additionally, the coaching staff has been evaluating talent at positions like linebacker and wide receiver, where improvements can help take the team to the next level.

 

With a strong finish to the 2023 season and some momentum heading into the recruiting cycle, West Virginia is hoping to land key signees who can immediately contribute to the program. The early signing period will provide a clear indication of where the team stands in terms of roster construction and what areas still need attention as the Mountaineers continue to build for the future. The balance between recruiting high school prospects and leveraging the transfer portal will ultimately be a crucial factor in how successful West Virginia is in the coming seasons.