ROOSTER RISES IN MORGANTOWN: West Virginia Lands Star RB Jaylan Knighton from Transfer Portal—A Game-Changing Move for the Mountaineers
In a stunning move that’s sending shockwaves through the Big 12, West Virginia University has landed electric running back Jaylan Knighton—a dynamic playmaker formerly at both SMU and the University of Miami. The news dropped like a thunderbolt across the college football world, and Mountaineer Nation is buzzing with excitement.
Knighton, affectionately nicknamed “The Rooster,” brings with him a lethal combination of speed, vision, and big-play ability that immediately upgrades WVU’s backfield. For a Mountaineers team already building momentum, this is a statement move—bold, strategic, and bursting with potential.
A LEGITIMATE GAME-BREAKER
Knighton isn’t just another name in the portal. He’s one of the most dynamic backs to move this offseason. With over 2,000 career all-purpose yards and a reputation for taking it to the house anytime he touches the ball, he adds instant explosiveness to the WVU offense.
At Miami, he flashed elite potential in the ACC, posting multiple 100-yard games and terrorizing defenses with his burst. After transferring to SMU, Knighton kept the fireworks going, averaging over 5 yards per carry and playing a key role in the Mustangs’ offensive attack.
Now, he brings all that talent—and all that hunger—to Morgantown.
> “I’ve always respected the grind and toughness that comes with playing for West Virginia,” Knighton said in his announcement. “Now I get to bring my energy, my fire, and my heart to this team. Let’s do something special.”
PERFECT FIT FOR A PROGRAM ON THE RISE
Under head coach Neal Brown, the Mountaineers have been steadily climbing, and this move is another strong sign that WVU means business. Brown has made it clear: West Virginia is not just a stepping-stone program—it’s a destination.
Knighton joins a WVU offense that’s looking to establish itself as one of the most versatile and feared in the Big 12. Pairing him with an already talented running back room and a dual-threat quarterback opens up endless possibilities for explosive plays and innovative schemes.
Whether it’s stretch runs, screens, or wheel routes, Knighton gives the Mountaineers a weapon that defensive coordinators will lose sleep over.
FAN REACTION: ELECTRIC
Social media erupted the moment the news broke. Mountaineer fans, already thrilled about the direction of the program, have turned it up another notch.
“Are you kidding me?! The Rooster is coming to WVU? Big 12 defenses ain’t ready!”
“This offense is about to COOK. Knighton is a certified playmaker.”
“Let’s Go Mountaineers! This is the kind of move that puts us in the conversation!”
The energy is palpable. Knighton brings not just production, but star power—and that’s something you can feel in every corner of the fanbase.
WHY THIS MOVE MATTERS
This isn’t just about adding a great player—it’s about changing the narrative. In a rapidly shifting college football landscape, with NIL and transfer portal chaos defining the offseason, West Virginia just made one thing very clear:
WVU is a serious player.
To land a high-profile athlete like Knighton, who had other suitors and could have gone almost anywhere, shows that the Mountaineers have built a culture that top talent wants to be part of.
Knighton’s commitment also signals a renewed belief in the program’s direction, vision, and ability to compete at the highest level of the Big 12.
> “I came here to win,” Knighton said. “To build something. To leave a mark. Let’s get to work.”
WHAT COMES NEXT
With fall camp approaching, all eyes will be on how quickly Knighton integrates into the offense. But knowing his style—fast, fearless, and full throttle—don’t be surprised if he makes an immediate impact.
Expect offensive coordinator Chad Scott to get creative with how he uses Knighton. Lining him up in the slot, in two-back sets, and even in return situations could unlock new dimensions for WVU’s offensive attack.
And let’s not forget—when the Mountaineers roll into hostile territory or take the field under the lights at Milan Puskar Stadium, every defense will be asking the same question:
“Where’s the Rooster?”
Because if they lose track for even a second… he’s gone.
THE BOTTOM LINE
Jaylan Knighton to WVU isn’t just a transfer—it’s a declaration. West Virginia is building something real, and this move proves it. The Mountaineers just added fire to their fight and flair to their future.
So cue the Country Roads, light up the coal, and hold onto your hats—because the Rooster has landed in Morgantown, and things are about to get LOUD.
Let’s Go, Mountaineers!
