West Virginia Flips 2026 Buffalo Defensive Back Commit Jayden Ballard

Monday evening, the West Virginia Mountaineers flipped 2026 Buffalo defensive back commit Jayden Ballard — a 6'1", 190-pounder from Manchester High School in Midlothian, Virginia. He also held offers from Air Force, Army, Bryant, Charlotte, Dartmouth, Elon, Navy, New Hampshire, Richmond, Wofford, and a few others.

Ballard's announcement

I"’ve got a big update to share. After a lot of thought and talks with my family and coaches, I’ve decided to flip my commitment from UB and will now be committing to WVU.

"I want to thank the coaches and everyone at UB for believing in me and giving me a great opportunity. I’ll always appreciate the love and support they showed me.

"After spending time at WVU and learning more about the program, I feel it’s the best place for me to grow as both a player and a person. I’m really excited to join the Mountaineer family and get to work.

"Thank you to my family, friends, and coaches for helping me through this process. I’m ready for this next chapter."

Stay tuned for more on Ballard's decision.

Updated 2026 WVU Football Recruiting Class

QB Jyron Hughley, Wyatt Brown

RB SirPaul Cheeks, Christopher Talley, Jett Walker

WR Robert Oliver, Malachi Thompson, Charlie Hanafin

TE Sam Hamilton, Kade Bush

OL Lamarcus Dillard, Justyn Lyles, Rhett Morris, Camden Goforth

DL Cameron Mallory

EDGE Noah Tishendorf, Carter Kessler, Kamdon Gillespie

LB Antoine Sharp, Miles Khatri, Cam Dwyer

CB Vincent Smith, Emari Peterson, Simaj Hill

S Jaylon Jones, Emory Snyder, Rickey Giles, Jayden Ballard

Ballard's announcement

Updated 2026 WVU Football Recruiting Class

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