WVU Freshman D-Lineman's Stunning Transformation Has Him Pushing for a Role

Could another true freshman make his way into WVU's plans in 2026?

WVU Athletics Communications

This freshman class continues to impress the West Virginia coaching staff early in fall camp, and another somewhat unexpected name is making moves.

Defensive lineman Yendor Mack was the first player that head coach Rich Rodriguez named when asked about backup options along the interior, saying, "He’s going to be a really good player."

Junior defensive lineman Nate Gabriel had praise for him, as well as fellow freshman Cam Mallory.

“Cam (Mallory) and Yendor, them boys, Yendor especially, them boys doing their thing. Them boys doing their thing during fall camp, I ain’t going to lie. I’ve been watching their film. They’re coming off striking, and especially them compared to spring. I worked with them over the summer, and they’re really rubbing off of me.”

“Especially Yendor," Gabriel responded when asked if either of them asks a lot of things. "Yendor is the one that’s going to ask a whole bunch of questions. Cam’s going to stay quiet, but both of them are ready to work.”

Yendor's massive transformation is eye-opening

WVU Athletics Communications

When Mack signed with the Mountaineers, WVU had him listed at 6'2", 244 lbs. I loved what I saw on tape but had a feeling it would be some time before we saw him on the field, especially if his then-light frame actually measured out as such when he got to campus.

What I didn't see coming is Mack putting on 44 pounds; no, that's not a typo...FORTY-FOUR pounds since December, now putting him at 288 lbs. That big increase alone gives him a chance to contend for a role this fall. And by the sounds of it, he's more than just contending.

It seems like there's a real possibility that he is a part of that defensive line rotation, and with redshirts no longer being a thing, they don't have to worry about keeping him under the four-game count. Even if it's just 8-10 snaps a game, he's getting experience and contributing. Right now, I have him as my No. 3 option at defensive tackle behind Corey McIntyre Jr. and KJ Henson.

During his senior year at Susquehanna Township High School in Harrisburg, PA, Mack totaled 47 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, and four sacks. He picked the Mountaineers on signing day over Michigan State, while also holding offers from Akron, Albany, Buffalo, Coastal Carolina, Georgetown, Howard, Monmouth, Morgan State, New Hampshire, Old Dominion, Richmond, Stony Brook, and Towson. He was initially committed to Coastal Carolina, whom the Mountaineers will open the season with.