I AM LEAVING: Beloved West Virginia Star Announces Departure, Sends Emotional Message to Fans
In a moment that shook Mountaineer Nation to its core, West Virginia University’s star quarterback, Elijah “Eli” Granger, announced his departure from the program in an emotional statement posted across social media late Sunday night. After three seasons of electrifying play, record-breaking performances, and an unshakable connection with the WVU faithful, Granger declared, “I am leaving Morgantown—but not without leaving a part of my heart behind.”
Granger’s post, which began with the simple but powerful words “I AM LEAVING,” immediately went viral, sparking a flood of reactions from fans, teammates, alumni, and even rival players. His caption read like a love letter to West Virginia: “This state, this team, this family—y’all made me who I am. From a kid with a dream to a man who wore the gold and blue with pride. I never played for the spotlight. I played for you.”
The 22-year-old junior had become a living legend at WVU. Hailing from Beckley, Granger was the first in-state recruit in over a decade to become the face of the program. With over 9,000 passing yards, 82 touchdowns, and a Big 12 Championship appearance under his belt, his statistics speak volumes—but it was his heart and leadership that truly set him apart.
Sources close to the program confirmed that Granger’s departure is not due to injury or disciplinary issues. Rather, it’s a strategic move: Granger has officially declared for the 2026 NFL Draft. Though many fans hoped he would return for a final season, insiders say he had long promised his late father—a coal miner who passed away two years ago—that he would reach the professional level as soon as he was ready.
At Monday morning’s press conference, WVU head coach Neal Browning fought back tears. “Eli gave this program everything. He’s the kind of player you build legacies around—not just for what he does on the field, but how he inspires the locker room and the entire state. He’s family.”
Perhaps the most poignant part of Granger’s message was his acknowledgment of the fans: “To every kid in the stands wearing number 7, keep believing. You don’t need a fancy zip code to make your mark—just heart, grit, and faith.”
As the news spreads, tributes have poured in. A mural of Granger is already in the works downtown. WVU students held a candlelight vigil Monday night on the steps of Woodburn Hall, holding up signs that read, “Forever Our QB1.”
Though his time at West Virginia is ending, Eli Granger’s impact will echo through the hills long after he throws his last college pass. His departure may close a chapter, but it has written a legend.
