West Virginia RB Jaylan Knighton Removed from Roster Due to Academic Issue

West Virginia running back Jaylan Knighton will not be playing this season due to an academic eligibility issue that came as a surprise to the team, according to head coach Rich Rodriguez. Knighton, who transferred from SMU after starting his college career at Miami, was expected to be a significant contributor to the Mountaineers' backfield but has now been removed from the roster. Despite his potential and a career total of nearly 2,000 rushing yards and 17 touchdowns, this academic hurdle likely ends his college football career. This development leaves West Virginia with just six running backs, including some who are still awaiting clearance to play, such as Tye Edwards. The team is also hoping to add former Jacksonville State running back Andre Devine to bolster the position. Rodriguez has acknowledged the difficulty of adding new players late in fall camp but remains focused on preparing the current roster for the season opener.