Rich Rodriguez’s QB woes may not end soon, but the running back unit has some positive news for the fure. Jaheim White suffered a knee injury in WVU’s second game of the season against Ohio. Now we have a comeback update from the horse’s mouth.
During the second quarter against the Bobcats, Ohio’s Jalen Thomeson did a horse-collar tackle on White, using his left hand to pull him down, with his right hand grabbing the facemask. Rodriguez wasn’t happy with the play. “It didn’t look good from the sideline,” he had said post-game. “But I haven’t even talked to the medical staff yet,” the HC said of White, who had tallied 40 yards and a touchdown before he left for the medical tent.
While Jalen was penalized, White sustained a knee injury, putting an end to his 2025 season. Since he appeared in just two games into the season and hadn’t utilized his redshirt year yet, he still has two years of his eligibility intact. The Spring drills are not ruled out, but “there is no rush to get him back on the field.”
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On Thursday, Sports Illustrated’s Schuyler Callihan reported that White” is “100%” expected to be a full-go for fall camp next year.” After he sustained the injury, White underwent surgery performed by Dr. ElAttrache, who believes that he is on a steady recovery curve and might bounce back by next season’s fall camp. The running back replied to Callihan’s post with, “Working on the comeback!”
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As reported, the Mountaineers’ support and fandom have been a great help in cheering up his spirits. He reads all the heartfelt posts and messages sent across by the community, keeping his focus on a swift recovery. With a team comprising nutritionists and trainers, he stays focused on his health.
Fans poured out their love in the comments section as well. “YESSSSS JAHEISMAN SEASON LOADING.” “Need that JAHIESMAN season.” “You are the ULTIMATE Mountaineer. 💙💛.”
Before wrapping up his 2025 season, Jaheim White chipped in three touchdowns on 24 carries for 133 yards. His 2024 season was more glorious, with seven rushing touchdowns for 845 yards, while splitting time with CJ Donaldson in the offensive backfield. Over the last two seasons, the junior registered over 1,600 rushing yards and 11 rushing touchdowns. Back in July, he found himself named to the 2025 Maxwell Award watch list, which honors the most outstanding player.
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WVU adds 140 athletic scholarships
On Thursday, another development has taken root for West Virginia’s athletic program. Much to the Mountaineers community and Pat McAfee’s delight, “Sources: West Virginia is going to add 140 new athletic scholarships starting in the 2026-27 season, including 16 new football scholarships and 124 in Olympic sports,” Pete Thamel reported.
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“When our athletic teams win,” WVU Vice President and Director of Athletics Wren Baker said. “WVU wins, and West Virginians swell with pride. We have an obligation to help strengthen the University while advancing its mission and integrity.” With the latest NCAA settlement, there is a change in roster sizes as well. Scholarship limits are replaced by roster sizes, and these scholarship numbers and distributions can count towards the $20.5 million revenue-sharing directive.
“The addition of 140 scholarships is a crucial step to making WVU Athletics stronger,” Baker added. Presently, the program has 260 scholarships spread across its 18 sport verticals. “WVU’s Board of Governors voted in September to be among the top-funded schools in the Big 12. And this move is part of that plan,” Thamel added. With the latest development, for the next season, with the bountiful addition, the scholarship number will jump to 400, per Thamel.