By: Clark Johnson | WV Sports Chat
Morgantown, WV – Earlier this week, I shared the biggest transfer portal losses for the WVU Football program this cycle. However, as we have all learned, the transfer portal works both ways. Coach Rich Rodriguez and staff worked tirelessly to put together a roster that can be competitive during the 2026 football season.
Today, I am going to look at the 5 BIGGEST ADDITIONS for the Mountaineers in the NCAA Transfer Portal this winter. These will be players that have both the most upside and potential next fall.
Here are newcomers WVU fans can look out for:
- Michael Hawkins (QB, R. Jr. – Oklahoma): Hawkins comes into the WVU Football program with the expectation of becoming the starting quarterback. While he will first have to battle it out with Scotty Fox, there is no denying the Texas native has the skill set to flourish in Rich Rodriguez’s offense. With a little work in his passing game, paired with his elite speed, Hawkins could be a headache for Big 12 defenses.
- Tobi Haastrup (Edge, R. Fr. – Oregon): Tobi Haastrup doesn’t possess loads of experience, but he certainly has the build and skills to become an elite pass rusher. Despite being one of the quietest additions during the transfer portal window, Haastrup will become a force in Zac Alley’s defense from the start.
- TaRon Francis (WR, R. Fr. – LSU): Another player lacking experience, TaRon Francis comes to Morgantown with a plethora of potential. The Louisiana native was expected to develop into a contributor for the Tigers, but ultimately entered the portal following a Texas Bowl loss to Houston. It will take some time, but Francis could become the top-dog in West Virginia’s receivers room.
- Wes King (OL, R. Sr. – Wyoming): Betting on an offensive lineman from the Group of Five can be risky. The Mountaineers learned this the hard way in 2025. However, given Wes King’s resume, it’s safe to say that he will be a gargantuan improvement over last year’s personnel. With no sacks allowed throughout his career, King will factor into WVU’s offensive rotation early and often.
- Cam Cook (RB, Sr. – Jacksonville State): Cook is easily the biggest addition for the WVU Football program during this portal cycle. The Texas native led the nation in rushing yards in 2025 with 1,659 yards – adding 16 touchdowns on the ground. Cook and Rich Rodriguez are a match made in Almost Heaven. Expect a monster season from Cook in 2026.
(Photo by WVU Athletics)
