West Virginia Football Shines as Two Standouts Projected in CBS Sports’ Latest First-Round NFL Draft Mock: A Monumental Moment for the Mountaineers
West Virginia University (WVU) has long been a breeding ground for talented athletes, but rarely has the program found itself in the spotlight of NFL Draft discussions to this extent. In CBS Sports’ latest mock draft, two WVU football stars are projected as first-round picks—a remarkable achievement for a program striving to regain prominence on the national stage. This unexpected turn of events has energized Mountaineers fans, placing WVU firmly in the conversation of elite college football programs producing next-generation NFL talent.
The news is not just a testament to the talent of the players but also to the culture and development fostered within the WVU football program. As excitement builds ahead of the NFL Draft, let’s delve into who these players are, what this projection means for WVU, and how it could reshape the program’s future.
The Players at the Center of the Spotlight
The two players projected to go in the first round are none other than quarterback Garrett Green and linebacker Lee Kpogba. Both have had standout seasons, catching the attention of scouts and analysts with their unique skill sets and high-impact performances.
Garrett Green: The Dual-Threat Quarterback
Garrett Green’s rise to prominence has been nothing short of meteoric. As a dual-threat quarterback, Green combines agility, speed, and a strong arm, making him a nightmare for opposing defenses. Throughout the season, Green showcased his ability to extend plays with his legs while delivering precision passes downfield.
In 2023, Green led the Mountaineers to several key victories, throwing for over 3,000 yards with 25 touchdowns and only eight interceptions. He added another 800 rushing yards and 12 rushing touchdowns, demonstrating his versatility as both a passer and a runner.
NFL scouts have been particularly impressed by Green’s poise under pressure. His ability to make smart decisions in clutch moments has drawn comparisons to some of the NFL’s elite quarterbacks, including Russell Wilson and Kyler Murray. At 6’2” and 215 pounds, Green possesses the physical attributes to succeed at the professional level, but it’s his football IQ and leadership that truly set him apart.
Projected to land with a team in need of a dynamic, game-changing quarterback, Green’s mock draft placement in the mid-first round signals a bright future. Whether he ends up leading a rebuilding team or joins a playoff contender looking for the final piece, Green is expected to make an immediate impact in the NFL.
Lee Kpogba: The Defensive Powerhouse
On the other side of the ball, Lee Kpogba has emerged as one of the most dominant linebackers in college football. Known for his sideline-to-sideline range and hard-hitting tackles, Kpogba has been the heart and soul of WVU’s defense.
During the 2023 season, Kpogba recorded an impressive 115 tackles, including 15 for loss, along with six sacks, two interceptions, and a forced fumble. His ability to read plays and react quickly has made him a disruptive force, whether stopping the run or dropping into coverage.
At 6’1” and 230 pounds, Kpogba possesses the ideal frame for a modern NFL linebacker. Scouts have praised his explosiveness, physicality, and football instincts, comparing him to NFL stars such as Roquan Smith and Devin White.
Projected to go in the late first round, Kpogba is seen as a versatile defender who can thrive in any system. Teams looking for a playmaker to anchor their defense will likely target him, and his ability to contribute immediately makes him a valuable commodity.
What This Means for WVU Football
Having two players projected as first-round picks is a significant milestone for West Virginia football, a program that has struggled to consistently produce NFL-caliber talent in recent years. While WVU has a storied history and a passionate fan base, the team has often been overshadowed by powerhouse programs such as Alabama, Ohio State, and Georgia.
This dual projection serves as validation for WVU’s ability to develop top-tier athletes capable of competing at the highest levels. It also highlights the effectiveness of the coaching staff, led by head coach Neal Brown, in creating an environment where players can reach their full potential.
For WVU, the benefits of this recognition extend beyond the immediate buzz. Recruiting, a cornerstone of any successful college football program, is expected to receive a major boost. High school prospects often look to programs with a track record of sending players to the NFL, and having two first-round projections will undoubtedly enhance WVU’s appeal to young talent.
Additionally, the national spotlight on WVU can help attract better sponsorship deals, improve facilities, and increase the overall profile of the program. The ripple effects of such recognition are far-reaching, creating a virtuous cycle that can elevate the program for years to come.
Fan Reactions and the Mountaineer Spirit
The news of the first-round projections has sparked excitement among WVU fans, who are known for their passionate support of the Mountaineers. Social media has been flooded with messages of pride and congratulations for both Green and Kpogba, with fans expressing optimism about the program’s trajectory.
“This is a huge moment for WVU football,” wrote one fan on Twitter. “Garrett Green and Lee Kpogba have worked so hard, and seeing them get the recognition they deserve is incredible. The future is bright for the Mountaineers!”
Others have noted the importance of celebrating these achievements while maintaining realistic expectations for the program. “This is great for WVU, but now we need to build on this momentum,” another fan commented. “Recruiting, consistency, and continuing to develop talent are key. Let’s not let this moment pass us by!”
The excitement is not limited to WVU fans, as NFL fanbases have also begun speculating about the potential landing spots for Green and Kpogba. Discussions on forums and social media highlight the anticipation surrounding these players, with fans eager to see how they’ll perform at the professional level.
The Bigger Picture: WVU’s Place in College Football
While individual player success is worth celebrating, it’s important to view this achievement within the broader context of WVU’s position in college football. The program has long been competitive but has faced challenges in maintaining consistent success in the increasingly competitive landscape of college athletics.
WVU’s ability to produce two first-round NFL Draft prospects in the same year signals a potential turning point. Programs that regularly send players to the NFL not only gain credibility but also position themselves as contenders in their respective conferences.
For WVU, this recognition comes at a crucial time, as the program looks to solidify its standing in the Big 12 Conference and beyond. The success of Green and Kpogba can serve as a rallying point for the team, inspiring current and future players to strive for excellence.
Challenges Ahead: Living Up to Expectations
While the projections are a cause for celebration, they also come with added pressure for both the players and the program. Garrett Green and Lee Kpogba will enter the NFL Draft process under intense scrutiny, with scouts, coaches, and analysts dissecting every aspect of their game.
For Green, questions about his ability to transition to the NFL as a dual-threat quarterback will likely dominate the narrative. Can he adapt to the speed of the professional game? Will his skill set translate effectively, or will he face challenges similar to other college quarterbacks who struggled in the NFL?
Kpogba, meanwhile, will need to prove that his college success can carry over to the professional level. NFL teams will be looking closely at his ability to handle the physical and mental demands of being a starting linebacker, as well as his versatility in different defensive schemes.
For WVU, the challenge lies in capitalizing on this moment. Maintaining momentum requires more than just celebrating individual success; it demands a commitment to sustained excellence. The program must continue to invest in recruiting, coaching, and player development to ensure that this achievement is not an isolated event.
Conclusion: A Defining Moment for WVU Football
The inclusion of Garrett Green and Lee Kpogba in CBS Sports’ latest NFL Draft mock first round is a monumental moment for West Virginia University football. It is a testament to the talent, hard work, and determination of these players, as well as the culture of excellence fostered within the program.
As the NFL Draft approaches, the excitement surrounding Green and Kpogba will only continue to grow. Their journey to the professional level is a source of pride for WVU and a reminder of the program’s potential to produce world-class talent.
For Mountaineer fans, this moment represents more than just two players achieving their dreams—it’s a glimpse into what the future of WVU football could look like. With the right combination of talent, leadership, and support, the program has the potential to reach new heights, solidifying its place among college football’s elite.
As the 2025 season looms on the horizon, all eyes will be on Morgantown, where the Mountaineers are poised to build on this extraordinary achievement. For now, WVU fans can celebrate this milestone, knowing that the best may be yet to come.
