With the NFL Draft kicking off tonight, it’s time to spotlight West Virginia University players from the 2024 roster who are poised to make the leap to the professional ranks. While Neal Brown’s tenure may not have yielded the desired win-loss record, his commitment to player development is evident as several Mountaineers prepare for the next level. READ MORE: Mountaineers in the NFL: Draft Prospects and Pro Players to Watch
Top Draft Prospect
Wyatt Milum – Offensive Lineman
Milum stands out as WVU’s premier draft prospect. A consistent starter throughout his college career, he’s been lauded for his toughness and reliability. NFL analyst Lance Zierlein describes him as “tough, strong, and assignment-oriented.” Most projections place him in the third round.
2024 Season Highlights –
- Pass Protection: Allowed zero sacks and only nine pressures over 337 snaps, demonstrating exceptional reliability in protecting the quarterback.
- Run Blocking: Played a pivotal role in a rushing attack that averaged nearly 230 yards per game, ranking third among Power Five programs.
- Consistency: Graded out at 92% or better in 11 of 12 regular-season games, showcasing his consistent high-level performance.
Accolades:
- Consensus All-American (2024)
- Big 12 Offensive Lineman of the Year (2024)
- First-Team All-Big 12 (2024)
- Second-Team All-Big 12 (2023)
RELATED: Spring Revival: Rich Rod Brings Life Back to WVU Football
Fringe Draft Candidates
Sean Martin – Defensive Lineman
Martin showcased consistent performance over his collegiate tenure, recording 3.5 sacks and 23 tackles in 2024. ESPN ranks him as the 275th-best prospect, slightly outside the 257 draft slots, indicating he might be a late-round pick or a priority undrafted free agent.
Garrett Greene – Quarterback/Wide Receiver
Greene’s versatility as both a quarterback and wide receiver adds intrigue to his profile. While not projected to be drafted, his adaptability could make him an attractive undrafted signee for teams seeking depth and flexibility.
Aubrey Burks – Safety
Known for his hard-hitting style, Burks has steadily climbed the ranks to become a formidable defensive presence. While not among the top-ranked safeties, his physicality and special teams potential could earn him a spot as a late-round pick or undrafted free agent.
Other Notable Prospects
Several other Mountaineers have declared for the draft and may find opportunities as undrafted free agents:
- Ty French – Linebacker
- Tyrin Bradley Jr. – SPUR
- Austin Brinkman – Long Snapper
- Dontez Fagan – Cornerback
- Michael Hayes II – Kicker
- Garnett Hollis Jr. – Cornerback
- Ja’Quay Hubbard – Offensive Lineman
- TJ Jackson II – Defensive Lineman
- Nick Malone – Offensive Lineman
- Fatorma Mulbah – Defensive Lineman
- Justin Robinson – Wide Receiver
- Kole Taylor – Tight End
- Anthony Wilson Jr. – Safety
- Brandon Yates – Offensive Lineman
While these players may not hear their names called during the draft, many have the potential to secure training camp invites and compete for roster spots.
Mountaineers Making Waves in the NFL
West Virginia has a rich history of producing NFL talent. Notably, Geno Smith, a former Mountaineer quarterback, has recently been traded to the Las Vegas Raiders. Smith, a two-time Pro Bowler and the 2022 AP Comeback Player of the Year, was acquired by the Raiders in exchange for a third-round pick. Expressing his enthusiasm about the move, Smith stated, “The stars are all aligning.”
Other former Mountaineers making their mark in the NFL include:
- David Long Jr. (Miami Dolphins) – A tackling machine and defensive anchor.
- Kyzir White (Arizona Cardinals) – Versatile linebacker with strong leadership.
- Colton McKivitz (San Francisco 49ers) – Reliable offensive lineman.
- Tony Fields II (Cleveland Browns) – Emerging linebacker with special teams prowess.
- Zach Frazier (Pittsburgh Steelers) – starting Center that showed promise before season ending injury.
- Beanie Bishop (Pittsburgh Steelers) – Safety that’s becoming more relied upon each week. Prone to the big play.
Final Thoughts
As the NFL Draft unfolds, WVU fans have ample reasons to tune in and cheer for their former players. Whether it’s hearing a Mountaineer’s name called during the draft or watching them sign as undrafted free agents, the journey from Morgantown to the NFL continues to be paved with determination and talent.
