By: Jonathan K. Martin | WV Sports Chat
West Virginia made a strong effort in the transfer portal to reshape the defensive side on the ball, and their additions have found themselves rated as a couple of the top cornerbacks in the Big 12.
PFF (Pro Football Focus) ranks the highest-graded returning cornerbacks in the Big 12 for the upcoming season. Leading the list is Iowa State’s Jontez Williams with an impressive 81.1 grade, but what’s generating excitement for WVU fans is the presence of two Mountaineer newcomers —Jordan Scruggs and Michael Coats Jr.—among the top performers, signaling a potential defensive resurgence under new defensive coordinator Zac Alley.
The PFF College list places Jordan Scruggs and Michael Coats Jr. tied for the top spot and third, respectively. Scruggs earned an 81.1 grade alongside Williams, while Coats Jr. received a grade of 80.8.
This grade at the top underscores the depth and talent in WVU’s secondary, a critical area of focus for the Mountaineers as they aim to rebound from recent defensive struggles. Scruggs, a physical presence known for his route-sticking ability, and Coats Jr., who combines agility with ball-hawking instincts
Scruggs, a transfer from South Alabama, recorded 70 tackles and one interception last season.
Coats Jr. played last season at Nevada and led the Wolfpack with 41 tackles, 4 interceptions and 17 total passes defended. He started all 13 games last season and was named All-Mountain West First Team.
