By: Jonathan K. Martin | WV Sports Chat
Among the names highlighted on a 2025 Breakout Watch List is West Virginia wide receiver Rodney Gallagher III, a player whose potential has been quietly simmering and is now drawing national attention.
What makes Gallagher’s case particularly intriguing is his fit within the dynamic, run-heavy offensive scheme of new West Virginia head coach Rich Rodriguez—a system that could unlock his full potential.
Gallagher III, a junior entering his third year with the Mountaineers, has already logged 26 career games with 10 starts, showcasing his versatility by playing both receiver and defensive back in 2024. But with a sole focus on offense under Rodriguez, expect the versatile receiver to find success in a more fitting offense.
Last season on offense, Gallagher III caught 26 passes for 288 yards and three touchdowns.
Gallagher’s speed and athleticism enhances his suitability for Rodriguez’s system. As a receiver, he can exploit the space created by the offense’s run-heavy approach, which forces defenses to commit to stopping the ground game, leaving wideouts in one-on-one situations. Rodriguez’s scheme often incorporates jet sweeps, bubble screens, and play-action passes—plays that favor agile, multi-dimensional athletes like Gallagher.
With 2025 marking his first full season under Rodriguez, Gallagher’s athleticism and prior production, position him as a candidate to capitalize on increased opportunities.
photo credit: post-gazette.com
