Rich Rod Doesn't Appear Concerned About Jahiem White's Future at West Virginia

In this story:
West Virginia head coach Rich Rodriguez made a great decision by rehiring Chad Scott to be the Mountaineers' running back coach. Unfortunately, it didn't end up playing out as expected due to the Texas Longhorns giving Scott a call and offering him an opportunity he quite simply couldn't pass up.
This day and age, players are so connected to their position coaches and the initial concern from Mountaineer fans was that star running back Jahiem White would jump in the portal. Obviously, the portal is closed right now and won't open until April, but it doesn't appear White has any plans on leaving the Old Gold and Blue.
The response is to go harder and be better. So let’s respond…@WVUfootball pic.twitter.com/Neao9VNMGG
— Jahiem White (@JahiemWhite_305) February 22, 2025
On Tuesday, Rodriguez was asked at his press conference if he has had any conversations with White since Scott's departure in regards to his future. His answer didn't reek of concern whatsoever.
“Coaches come and go. These guys, they’re going to get attached to their position coach, but hell, if all these guys aspire to be pro guys, they’re probably going to change position coaches every one year or two, and their teammates change. Jahiem is a veteran guy, a really good player. He’s banged up right now with his knee, but he’ll be fine. I’m excited about what he can do. I think he can have a great season.”
Rodriguez also shared a small update on the search to replace Scott, noting that something should be finalized in the near future. In the meantime, senior offensive assistant Travis Trickett is helping Noel Devine out with the running backs.
MORE STORIES FROM WEST VIRGINIA ON SI
Quick Hits: A Chaplain's Prayer, Eager QBs, RB Coach Search + Evolution of Tight Ends
In the Gun Podcast: West Virginia Spring Football Preview
The One Thing That Will Determine if West Virginia is an NCAA Tournament Team
ESPN Bracketology Still Has West Virginia on the Right Side of the Bubble

Schuyler Callihan is the publisher of West Virginia On SI and has been a trusted source covering the Mountaineers since 2016. He is the host of Between The Eers, The Walk Thru Game Day Show, and In the Gun Podcast. The Wheeling, WV native moved to Charlotte, North Carolina in 2020 to cover the Charlotte Hornets and Carolina Panthers.
Follow Callihan_