Brotherhood and the Backyard Brawl: LaRon Dues Eyes West Virginia Future
MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — Under the golden lights of a packed high school stadium in Cardinal, Ohio, LaRon Dues plays with a fire that mirrors the intensity of his older brother’s days on the college gridiron. At 5-foot-10 and 180 pounds, Dues is a 2026 defensive back prospect with sharp instincts, explosive footwork, and a relentless drive to succeed. But beyond the stats and highlight reels lies a deeper motivation—family.
“My brother made a name for himself at West Virginia. To wear that same jersey, to walk the same halls—man, it would mean everything,” LaRon said following a recent 7-on-7 showcase, his eyes gleaming with purpose.
West Virginia has taken notice. The Mountaineers have placed themselves squarely in LaRon’s top five, alongside Michigan State, Kentucky, Pitt, and Virginia Tech. Still, Morgantown holds a special place in the young prospect’s heart—not just for its facilities, tradition, or even proximity, but because of what it represents: legacy.
LaRon’s brother, Marcus Dues, starred for the Mountaineers as a lockdown corner from 2018 to 2021. Known for his big hits and even bigger heart, Marcus helped bring stability to WVU’s secondary during a critical transition period for the program. His impact remains in the locker room, his picture still hanging outside the DB meeting room—a constant reminder of the grit it takes to wear the Old Gold and Blue.
“Marcus laid the groundwork,” said West Virginia defensive backs coach Jahmile Addae. “We see some of those same qualities in LaRon—football IQ, physicality, leadership. He’s not just a name; he’s a competitor in his own right.”
LaRon’s junior season only reinforced his rising stock. With 4 interceptions, 12 pass breakups, and 48 tackles, he cemented his status as one of the Midwest’s top defensive backs. College scouts have praised his ability to mirror routes, anticipate throws, and make game-changing plays in the open field. He’s a student of the game—studying film with his brother, dissecting route trees and coverage schemes late into the night.
“I want to make my own mark,” LaRon said. “But I can’t lie—being a Mountaineer would feel like home.”
The Mountaineers’ 2026 class is already shaping into one of their most promising in years, and landing LaRon would be a symbolic and strategic victory. His recruitment remains open, but the pull of family and familiarity is strong. With an official visit to Morgantown slated for this fall, momentum could tip in West Virginia’s favor.
“Every time I step on the field, I think about my brother,” LaRon said. “Now it’s about carving my own path—maybe in the same colors he wore.”
Whether or not that path leads him to Milan Puskar Stadium, one thing is clear: LaRon Dues is not just chasing offers. He’s chasing greatness—and possibly, a reunion.
