One of West Virginia’s biggest setbacks in 2025 was losing running back Jahiem White to injury, and the disappointment only deepened as the key playmaker opted to transfer after the season.
1) Penn State
Matt Campbell takes over at Penn State, and one of his first tasks will be retooling the offense. Running backs Kaytron Allen and Nicholas Singleton appear to be off to the NFL Draft, leaving the starting spot wide open. White could be one of their targets for the 2026 season.
Campbell’s not a stranger to good running backs. His latest tandem of Carson Hansen and Abu Sama proved lethal for his Iowa State Cyclones, so he knows what good running backs look like. White is an underrated player who elevated his appeal, and the Nittany Lions could benefit from his abilities.
2) Virginia Tech
White doesn’t have breakaway speed to run away from defenders, but he brings plenty of good skills to the table. He has a compact frame, making him tough for defenders to tackle, but he also has the vision and quickness to make guys miss. That physicality is something Virginia Tech’s new head coach likes.
James Franklin takes over for the Virginia Tech Hokies, and he’s looking for any opportunity to improve the team. He coached Penn State’s Allen and Singleton, and White could give him a smaller version of those two great running backs.
3) TCU
While TCU is looking for a new offensive coordinator with Kendal Briles off to South Carolina, there’s still plenty of appeal for offensive talent to join the Horned Frogs. Sonny Dykes remains in charge, and he’s a good offensive mind who knows how to create explosive offenses.
Injuries and inconsistent play marred the Horned Frogs’ rushing attack. A team familiar with White’s abilities could work to bring balance to its offense with his addition to the roster.
4) Cincinnati
Tawee Walker and Evan Pryor did wonders to help the Cincinnati rushing attack this year, but their time with the Bearcats is coming to an end. Scott Satterfield identified both players in the transfer portal, and White could be his next target.
Much of this might depend on Brendan Sorsby’s decision. He could go pro, enter the transfer portal, or return in 2026. If he comes back, he could unite with White to give them an exciting backfield once again.
5) UCF
Scott Frost’s goal of rebuilding the Knights is well on its way, and he’ll use the transfer portal to continue that process. His offense needs multiple new weapons, including at quarterback and running back, and how he attacks could determine whether he gets White.
The Knights can feature their running backs well, and White is looking for an opportunity to be the guy at his new school. He’ll get that at UCF, and just needs to get back to full strength to make that happen.
