Updated WVU Football Running Back Depth Chart with Jaylan Knighton & Kannon Katzer

Change is in full swing in the West Virginia running back room, even since spring ball, where the Mountaineers have added a pair of veterans through the portal.

Jahiem White has the starting job locked up, but he's going to need a little bit of help if this offense wants to be one of the best units in the Big 12 Conference.

So, where does it come from?

Here's a look at my updated running back depth chart, following the recent commitment from SMU transfer Jaylan Knighton and Ferris State transfer Kannon Katzer.

No. 1: Jahiem White

West Virginia University running back Jahiem White | Christopher Hall - West Virginia on SI

If White can stay healthy, he is in a great position to be one of the top backs in the Big 12 Conference. His production was a little more hit and miss last season, but I would attribute much of that to the offensive line not being nearly as good as it was in the run game as it was in 2023. Teams also adjusted to White after getting some film on him. Now, it's time for White to make that leap and become a 1,000-yard rusher.

No. 2: Jaylan Knighton

Dec 28, 2023; Boston, MA, USA; Southern Methodist Mustangs running back Jaylan Knighton (4) runs the ball against the Boston College Eagles during the first half at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Eric Canha-Imagn Images | Eric Canha-Imagn Images

The former Miami and SMU back is a perfect fit for Rich Rodriguez's offense. They desperately needed to add another veteran to the mix who could run away from defenders and make things happen in space. Knighton fills that need. For his career, Knighton has totaled 1,981 yards and 17 touchdowns on 423 carries.

No. 3: Tye Edwards

West Virginia University running back Tye Edwards | Christopher Hall - West Virginia on SI

Edwards may be listed third, but he'll be heavily involved. The 6-foot-2, 237-pounder will be the thumper for the Mountaineers. He'll handle much of the short-yardage/goal-line work, but will do much more than that. In my opinion, Knighton and Edwards are more like 2A and 2B.

No. 4: Kannon Katzer

Ferris State Running Back Kannon Katzer receives an offer from West Virginia University | Ferris State Athletics

Katzer is the most recent addition to the running back room, coming over from Ferris State. He's a scrappy and feisty runner, playing bigger than his 5'9", 190-pound frame would suggest. This past season, he rushed for 1,128 yards and scored 11 touchdowns, helping Ferris State to a Division II championship.

No. 5: Diore Hubbard

West Virginia University running back Diore Hubbard | Christopher Hall – West Virginia on SI

Hubbard is the youngest of the bunch, but has starting potential down the road. Rodriguez and the offensive staff are big believers in what he can do. He may be fifth on my chart now, but don't be surprised to see him rise with a strong fall camp and contribute this season.

No. 6: Clay Ash

West Virginia freshman running back Clay Ash looks for a crease in the Gold-Blue Spring Game. | Christopher Hall

The former walk-on had a solid winter and spring, resulting in winning the Tommy Nickolich Memorial Award, which recognizes the program's top walk-on. Assuming he's still rostered in August, he'll likely see most of his action on special teams. There's too much depth in front of him to log any time on offense.