Who Replaces Jaden Bray's Production? Here's a Look at West Virginia's Options

WVU wide receiver depth chart projection following Jaden Bray's injury.
West Virginia University receiver Preston Fox returns a punt against Robert Morris.
West Virginia University receiver Preston Fox returns a punt against Robert Morris. | Christopher Hall – West Virginia on SI

West Virginia will enter the Backyard Brawl without running back Jahiem White and wide receiver Jaden Bray. Both players are expected to miss the remainder of the season, which is a massive blow to an already struggling offensive unit.

With Bray now sidelined for the rest of the season, WVU will probably need a couple of guys to step up and fill that production. Who could that be? Here's how I see things potentially shaking out, at least for this week's game against Pitt.

Projected WVU Wide Receiver Depth Chart (X position only)

Preston Fox - I don't believe it's clear-cut that Fox will be the guy, but it makes the most sense, and not just because he's been listed as Bray's backup the previous two weeks. He's consistent, reliable, and makes things happen after the catch. He doesn't have the size Bray brings, but his athleticism and reliability make up for it.

Justin Smith-Brown OR Jeff Weimer - Lumping these two together because they are going to continue to be the guys backing up Cam Vaughn at the X. One of them (or both) could split time there when Vaughn is off the field and Z when he's on it. They've both been productive throughout their collegiate careers and have a lot of experience.

Jordan McCants - McCants has experience in this system, having played in it the last three years at Jacksonville State. He's the wild card of the bunch. Because he knows the system and has made some plays in it, he could emerge as someone fighting for that top spot by season's end. It just might not happen right away.

Christian Hamilton - The North Carolina transfer has an extra gear to him and has produced some explosive plays, dating back to his high school days. He's going to be a player here, I just don't know if that will be this season or beginning in 2026.

MORE STORIES FROM WEST VIRGINIA ON SI

Projecting WVU's RB Depth Chart With Jahiem White Now Out of the Mix

Injuries Expected to Sideline Jahiem White & Jaden Bray for the Rest of the 2025 Season

Kickoff Time, TV Network Announced for West Virginia's Game at Kansas

Noel Devine’s 8th Grade Son Just Landed His First College Offer From a Big Time Program

WVU Did Not Shuffle the Offensive Line Once in Loss to Ohio, and That’s a Red Flag


Published
Schuyler Callihan
SCHUYLER CALLIHAN

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.

Share on XFollow Callihan_