By: Clark Johnson | WV Sports Chat
Morgantown, WV – It is only February, but we are officially deep into offseason content for WVU Football. While we are still seven months from kickoff, it is never too early to look ahead at what the fall will hold for the Mountaineers. Today, I am going to highlight the 5 PLAYERS POISED TO BREAKOUT for the WVU Football team in 2026.
Despite the desire to keep this list focused on returning players, that’s nearly impossible with the current landscape of collegiate athletics. Included in this article will be both players we saw take the field in 2025, as well as transfers just arriving on campus
Here are the 5 players who will have a massive impact for the Mountaineers in 2026:
- Scotty Fox (QB – So.): I know, I know. How long am I going to beat this drum? Even with his struggles, I have been exceedingly high on the potential of quarterback Scotty Fox. That’s not going to change with this article. If Fox can utilize the offseason as an opportunity for growth, we could see a massive jump in performance and production from him. I think that’s exactly what will happen.
- Michael Hawkins (QB – R. So.): Two quarterbacks on this list? Absolutely. While I am high on the potential of Fox, I know the skill set of Michael Hawkins is nothing to scoff at. If the Oklahoma transfer can come in and get his feet under him quickly, he will take off in Rich Rodriguez’s offense. Whether it be Fox or Hawkins, fans will be talking about the signal-caller at season’s end, regardless.
- Jaden Bray (WR – R. Sr.): Since arriving at WVU in 2024, Jaden Bray has suffered two season-ending injuries. The Oklahoma native possesses the skill set to be a productive receiver in the Big 12. Will 2026 finally be the year he avoids the injury bug and breaks out? I think so. Bray’s experience automatically makes him the “top-dog” in West Virginia’s revamped receivers room. Expect the coaches to try to get the ball to him early and often.
- Cam Cook (RB – Sr.): This selection is the ultimate no-brainer. When you mix the nation’s leading rusher with Rich Rodriguez’s run-heavy spread offense, you’re going to get people excited. If Cam Cook can stay healthy, there’s no reason he shouldn’t be one of the most dominant running backs in the Big 12 by November.
- Tyler Stolsky (LB – R. Sr.): Shifting the attention to the defense, there are many newcomers that have great potential for the Mountaineers. However, none stands out more than Florida Atlantic transfer Tyler Stolsky. The Michigan native put up a solid 2025 season for the Owls, tallying 86 tackles, 2 pass deflections, and a sack. With his size and skill set, he should fit in perfectly to Zac Alley’s defense.
(Photo by WVU Athletics)
