BREAKING NEWS: Garrett Greene Pens Powerful Open Letter to West Virginia Mountaineers Family as He Begins NFL Journey with Tampa Bay Buccaneers
MORGANTOWN, WV — In a heartfelt and emotional moment that sent shockwaves through the West Virginia community, former Mountaineers star quarterback Garrett Greene released a moving open letter to Mountaineer Nation, expressing deep gratitude and bidding a touching farewell as he officially begins his NFL career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
For years, Greene was more than just a quarterback — he was the heartbeat of the West Virginia football program. Known for his explosive playmaking ability, fierce leadership, and undeniable passion, he became a fan favorite and a symbol of Mountaineer pride. Now, with the NFL Draft chapter complete and a new professional journey beginning in Tampa Bay, Greene took a moment to pause and honor the people and program that shaped him.
In the letter, Greene wrote:
> “To the fans, my teammates, the coaching staff, and the entire WVU community — thank you for believing in me, for pushing me to be my best, and for never letting me forget where I came from. West Virginia isn’t just where I played football. It’s where I found family, purpose, and love.”
The letter continues with Greene recalling his earliest days in Morgantown — from the nerves of his first start, to the euphoria of upset wins, to the sound of the crowd echoing across Milan Puskar Stadium. He credits the university with not only helping him grow as an athlete, but also shaping the man he is today.
> “You welcomed me with open arms and stood by me through the highs and lows. Every time I put on that gold and blue jersey, I did it with pride, knowing I was playing for something bigger than myself.”
Greene’s words struck an emotional chord with fans across social media, with thousands sharing memories, clips, and messages of appreciation in return. One fan commented, “We watched you grow from a promising recruit to a true Mountaineer legend. Tampa Bay got a warrior.”
This open letter isn’t just a farewell — it’s a reminder of what makes college football so special: the relationships, the community, and the lasting impact of a student-athlete who gave his all. Greene’s legacy at WVU isn’t defined only by stats or records — it’s the heart he played with, the grit he showed, and the way he connected with fans on and off the field.
As Garrett Greene prepares to wear the red and pewter of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Mountaineer Nation will be watching, cheering, and standing proudly behind him. He may be headed to the NFL, but his roots will always run deep in the hills of West Virginia.
And as Greene powerfully closed his letter:
> “Once a Mountaineer, always a Mountaineer. Let’s Go.”
Mountaineer Nation salutes you, QB1.
